Improved Healthcare Within the State
Agartala: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Wednesday said that his government is working to create a “new Tripura” where the next generation will not face difficulties in accessing healthcare.
Speaking at the 20th Foundation Day celebrations of Tripura Medical College and Dr BRAM Teaching Hospital at Hapania, the CM — who is also a dental surgeon — said that the state’s health infrastructure has improved significantly in the past seven years.
“The number of patients being referred outside the state has reduced by one-third as almost all critical medical treatments are now available in Tripura,” he said, according to an IANS report.
Advanced Treatments and Technology
Highlighting that many people still spend large sums of money on treatment outside Tripura, the CM stressed the need to create awareness about the availability of advanced facilities within the state.
“Now we have Artificial Intelligence (AI), new technologies, and high-speed internet. We must use these tools innovatively. We are working to build a new Tripura where the next generation does not face any major challenges,” he added.
He noted that Tripura Medical College has already produced 13 batches of MBBS graduates and suggested that alumni should be invited to such events in the future.
Infrastructure Expansion and Maintenance
Saha acknowledged that while new infrastructure will continue to be built, equal focus must be placed on repairing and maintaining existing facilities so that they remain efficient and presentable.
“When a perfect person runs a college, I am really happy, but in the government sector, people generally don’t like to take responsibility. Along with creating new infrastructure, the old ones must also be repaired and maintained,” he remarked.
Fight Against Drug Abuse
Expressing concern over the rising number of drug users in Tripura, the CM — who also holds the Health and Family Welfare portfolio — called for a mass movement against drugs.
“Taking drugs through syringes often leads to HIV infection and AIDS. People must be more aware and cautious. If necessary, consultations should be held in their areas and proper surveillance maintained,” he said.
Plans for More Medical Colleges and Courses
Currently, Tripura has three medical colleges with 400 MBBS seats, and the government is planning to increase seats and introduce specialised courses in the state.
The event was attended by Health Secretary Kiran Gitte, Chairman of Tripura Medical College Society Dr Pramotesh Roy, CEO of the Society Swapan Saha, Principal Dr Arindam Dutta, Medical Superintendent Dr Jayanta Poddar, Professor Dr A.K. Chakma, and several eminent physicians.
