We Must Strive to Bring Down AIDS Rates Further in Tripura: CM Dr. Manik Saha Launching State-wide Campaign on IEC

Agartala, August 17, 2024: In a significant move to combat HIV and AIDS, Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha officially launched the state-wide campaign of intensified Information Education and Communication (IEC) at the Secretariat in Agartala city on Saturday. This campaign organized by the Tripura State AIDS Control Society, aims to create mass awareness among the people of the state and will continue for the next two months.

During the launch, Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha emphasized the importance of identifying the sources of HIV infection and taking massive public awareness and precautionary measures. “AIDS infection can be controlled through citizen awareness. Students from school to college level should be made aware of the dangers of this disease,” he stated. He also urged school teachers and related persons to take responsibility in preventing HIV infection by addressing drug addiction.

The Chief Minister highlighted the state’s efforts in combating drug addiction by mentioning the establishment of drug rehabilitation centers in eight districts. “Permission has already been given to start drug rehabilitation centers in 8 districts of the state. Additionally, a larger rehabilitation center with modern facilities will be built in Bishramganj,” he announced.

In a review meeting held earlier, Chief Minister Saha stressed the need for more screening of AIDS patients and regular observation for effective treatment. He noted, “Sikkim has the lowest number of AIDS patients among the North Eastern states. We must strive to bring down this rate further in our state.”

Chief Secretary JK Sinha, present at the meeting, underscored the importance of responsible awareness to avoid unnecessary confusion. “A massive campaign is needed at various levels. Regular review and coordination meetings must be held with the voluntary organizations associated with the AIDS Control Society,” he said.

State Health and Family Welfare Department Secretary Kiran Gitte provided insights into the ongoing efforts, stating, “More than 100 HIV/AIDS awareness programs have been undertaken among students of various colleges and schools from January to July this year. IEC materials have been distributed free of cost to various schools and colleges.”

The Tripura State AIDS Control Society has been proactive, with 24 Stand Alone Integrated Counseling and Testing Centers and 133 Facility Integrated Counseling and Testing Centers in Screening and Testing Services. “23 OST Centers are operational, and 9 more centers will be operational soon. Additionally, 1 mobile ICTC van is operational in the state,” Secretary Gitte added.

Secretary PK Chakraborty emphasized the need for concerted steps to increase social awareness, particularly involving women-led self-help groups in rural areas. The meeting saw participation from key officials, including Director General of State Police Amitabh Ranjan, Finance Secretary Apoorba Roy, Special Secretary of Education Department Ravel Hemendra Kumar, and Secretary of Social Welfare and Social Education Department Tapas Roy.

Project Director of Tripura State AIDS Control Society, Dr. Samarpita Datta, along with District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police from all districts, discussed AIDS, anti-drug programs, and public awareness issues. They provided valuable suggestions to make the state AIDS and drug-free.

The campaign’s launch marks a significant step towards a healthier and more informed Tripura, with a strong focus on community involvement and preventive measures.

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