By Firstdespatch Desk Jan 20, 2025
Agartala, Jan 20 (FD) The Tripura government, led by Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, reaffirmed its commitment to creating a drug-free society with a zero-tolerance policy on drug abuse. The Chief Minister made this announcement during the foundation-laying ceremony of a 200-bed Integrated De-addiction Center in Bishramganj on Friday.
During the event, he also virtually inaugurated several key infrastructure projects, including a new district transport office building and the Sepahijala Circuit House. Additionally, he inaugurated a road from Bishramganj Bazaar to Chikanchhara via Barkobari, the newly constructed building of Latiyachhara Higher Secondary School in Jampuijala Block, and the extra classrooms and boundary wall of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Higher Secondary School in Charilam.
Chief Minister Saha emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the northeastern states are witnessing rapid infrastructure development under the "Ashtalakshmi" framework. Guided by this vision, the state government is working relentlessly to transform Tripura into a model state.
He addressed the social threat posed by addiction, labeling it a severe disease responsible for chronic health issues. He urged society to collaborate with the administration to combat drug addiction effectively, stating that administrative actions alone cannot achieve lasting success without active public participation.
Highlighting the state's progress in safety and development, he pointed out that Tripura’s crime rate has dropped significantly compared to other states. Efforts to promote women’s empowerment are also ongoing, with more than 56,000 self-help groups established across the state.
The rehabilitation center in Bishramganj, the largest of its kind in Tripura, will offer comprehensive support for addicts to reintegrate into society. The Chief Minister noted that beyond building modern facilities, identifying drug traffickers and stopping their operations is critical in winning the fight against substance abuse.
Tourism and Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury echoed this sentiment, stating that enhanced connectivity and infrastructure are accelerating the state’s development. He added that the rehabilitation center aims to empower individuals by engaging them in productive activities.
Public Works and Health Secretary Kiran Gitte also spoke at the event, and Sepahijala District Magistrate Siddharth Shiv Jaiswal delivered the welcome address. The gathering included MLAs Sushanta Deb, Kishore Barman, Tafajjal Hossain, Antara Sarkar Deb, and Subodh Debbarma, alongside Sepahijala Superintendent of Police B.J. Reddy.
Chief Minister Saha also presented awards to Sepahijala district residents for their outstanding contributions in national art festivals, sports, and disease prevention initiatives. FD SB