Agartala: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Monday stressed the need for increased screening to combat HIV/AIDS and highlighted the importance of more discussions and awareness campaigns in schools and colleges. Addressing a World AIDS Day programme at the MBB College playground, he emphasised that awareness among the youth is crucial to controlling the spread of the infection.
Government Focus on Awareness and Drug Prevention
Saha, who also holds the Health and Family Welfare portfolio, said public awareness must be expanded and added that security agencies are taking a strict stance against drug abuse. He noted that societal challenges, including stress and lifestyle issues, have contributed to increasing addiction among young people, making preventive counselling essential.
Current HIV/AIDS Situation in Tripura
As of October 2025, Tripura has recorded 6,417 people infected with HIV/AIDS, including 1,222 women, 5,189 men and six transgender persons. The government is providing a monthly allowance of ₹2,000 to infected individuals, according to data shared by news agency IANS. Saha reiterated that while HIV remains incurable, modern medicine has made it possible to manage viral load effectively.
Tripura Recognised for Strong AIDS Control Measures
The Chief Minister said the Tripura State AIDS Control Society continues to work consistently to tackle HIV/AIDS. Highlighting the State’s efforts, he noted that Tripura has been recognised as a good-performing state in the national review conducted by the National AIDS Control Society. He added that although HIV cannot be eradicated once present in the body, those infected can lead normal lives with timely treatment.
Appeal for Establishing Red Ribbon Clubs in Schools
Saha pointed out that globally around four crore people are living with HIV, with India accounting for around 25.44 lakh cases. He said the State’s World AIDS Day event aimed to boost awareness and urged the AIDS Control Society to establish Red Ribbon Clubs in schools, expanding on the earlier practice of having such clubs only at the college level.
Youth Represent Majority of HIV Cases in Tripura
Citing available data, the Chief Minister expressed concern that 83 per cent of Tripura’s HIV-infected population belongs to the youth category, and 39 per cent of them are girls. He stressed that merely making arrests in drug cases is not enough; children affected by substance abuse must also be counselled. He added that large quantities of drugs had been destroyed recently as part of intensified anti-narcotics efforts.
Teachers Urged to Monitor Students and Promote Awareness
Addressing students and teachers, Saha urged educational institutions to keep an eye on unruly or frequently absent students and contact parents if needed. He emphasised the need for increased screening for early detection of HIV/AIDS and encouraged teachers to devote at least five minutes in class to discuss health-related awareness issues. He also appealed to clubs and social organisations to support awareness drives.
Event Attended by Senior Officials and Academicians
The Chief Minister noted that deaths due to HIV/AIDS have significantly declined globally and in India. The event saw the presence of several dignitaries, including MBB University Vice Chancellor Dr. Bibhas Deb, Health Department Secretary Kiran Gitte, West District Magistrate Vishal Kumar, Superintendent of Police Namit Pathak, Higher Education Director Animesh Debbarma, Education Director N. C. Sharma, and Health Department Director Dr. Debashree Debbarma.
