By Firstdespatch Desk Oct 14, 2024
Agartala, Oct 14 (FD) Govinda Ballabh Pant (GBP) Hospital, a prominent medical institution in the North Eastern region, celebrated its 64th foundation anniversary on Monday, with Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha serving as the chief guest. During the event, a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the State Government and the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) to enhance the hospital's specialty wards, further solidifying GBP Hospital's legacy in the region.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Chief Minister Saha emphasized the hospital’s historical importance. "GBP Hospital holds a special place among North Eastern states. During the 1971 Liberation War, it played a pivotal role," the Chief Minister remarked. He added that the hospital has transformed over the decades, with modern technology and super-specialty departments being introduced to meet current healthcare demands.
Reflecting on his own experience working at GBP Hospital, Dr. Saha noted the vast difference between the facilities in the past and today. He acknowledged that earlier, VM Hospital (now IGM Hospital) was the primary healthcare facility in Agartala, and due to the increasing patient load, the establishment of GBP Hospital in 1961 became essential. Over time, GBP has emerged as a cornerstone of medical services in the state.
A key highlight of the event was the signing of a MoU between the Tripura State Government and ONGC for the construction of a new 20-bed specialty ward dedicated to treating infectious diseases. The agreement was exchanged by State Chief Secretary JK Sinha and ONGC's Asset Manager Krishna Kumar. Under this agreement, ONGC will allocate ₹34.46 crore towards the development of the ward, which is expected to significantly bolster the hospital's capacity to handle complex cases and infectious diseases.
Chief Minister Saha highlighted that the state government is prioritizing infrastructure development across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and sports, as part of its broader 'Lakshya' vision. This strategic plan aims to build a developed India and a progressive Tripura by 2047. The Chief Minister expressed prides in the state's advancements in healthcare, mentioning that Tripura now boasts a medical college and a dental college—something previously unimaginable.
"The state is now attracting investors in the healthcare sector," said Dr. Saha, pointing out that many medical students who
had left the state for their studies are now looking to return as super specialists. He also emphasized that most medical services are now available within Tripura, eliminating the need for residents to seek treatment elsewhere. He referred to the success of the 'Mukhyamantri Samipeshu' program, which offers medical aid to the public, revealing that 90% of applicants can receive adequate treatment in-state.
During the celebration, Chief Secretary JK Sinha outlined plans for the future development of GBP Hospital. He urged stakeholders to begin planning for the hospital's 75th anniversary in 11 years, with a focus on further expanding and improving the facility. He also praised the hospital’s performance during the COVID-19 pandemic, when it played a crucial role in treating patients.
Other notable attendees at the event included MLA Meenarani Sarkar, Chairperson of the GBP Hospital’s Patient Welfare Association; ONGC Asset Manager Krishna Kumar; and AGMC Principal Dr. Anup Kumar Saha. Superintendent Dr. Shankar Chakraborty and several other dignitaries also participated.