By Firstdespatch Desk Sep 30, 2026
Agartala, Sept 30 (FD) In a meaningful push toward strengthening emergency road safety responses and fostering community empathy, the Tripura Transport Department on Wednesday conferred the prestigious "Rah Veer" (Good Samaritan) Award 2026 upon eight citizens who played vital roles in saving the lives of road crash victims.
Held at the State Secretariat's Conference Hall No. 1, the felicitation ceremony was presided over by State Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury. District Magistrates from across the state joined the event virtually. During the ceremony, certificates of recognition alongside cash cheques worth ₹25,000 each were formally handed over to the award recipients in honour of their prompt and selfless service.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Sushanta Chowdhury underscored that standing by individuals in times of crisis represents the truest expression of humanity. He emphasized the critical significance of the "golden hour"—the crucial first 60 minutes following a severe traumatic injury—noting that thousands of lives can be rescued if timely medical intervention is secured without fear or hesitation.
The Government of India introduced the "Rah Veer" scheme in 2025 to incentivize ordinary citizens to step forward and aid distress victims during road accidents without anxiety over legal harassment or administrative procedures. Minister Chowdhury reiterated that Tripura has proactively embraced this initiative to cultivate an active culture of civic responsibility and compassion across all subdivisions.
The eight awardees represent diverse corners of the state:
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Gomati District: Shri Kajal Debnath and Shri Prasenjit Bhowmik (joint awardees), Ashesh Das, Khurshid Mia, and Ajit Das.
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Dhalai District: Satyajit Kumar Shil and Satya Ranjan Debnath.
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Unakoti District: Latika Sinha.
Commending their moral courage, the Minister urged society to shed reluctance and rally behind accident victims, adding: "Let us not turn away after an accident; instead, let us extend a helping hand and stand firm as a 'Rah Veer.'"
Senior dignitaries in attendance included PWD Secretary Kiran Gitte, Finance Secretary Prashant Kumar Goyal, Urban Development Secretary Dr. Milind Ramteke, Higher Education Director Animesh Debbarma, Transport Commissioner Subrata Chowdhury, SP Traffic (West) Kanta Jangir, and other department officials. FD SB