Agartala, August 13, 2025|SKY LINK TIMES
Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha has expressed deep concern over rising cases of drug abuse and the spread of HIV in the state, revealing a 103% increase in drug seizures during the 2023–24 period. Addressing a state-level programme titled ‘Bell of Awareness’ on International Youth Day at Pragna Bhawan in Agartala, the CM also noted a 130% jump in the destruction of seized drugs in the same period.
The event saw participation from nearly 6,000 students from across the state. CM Saha cautioned students that drug addiction develops gradually, urging them to remain vigilant. “Parents should pay special attention. Our government follows a zero-tolerance policy on drugs to make Tripura nashamukt (drug-free),” he said, referencing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s and Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s call for a drug-free India.
Highlighting the HIV scenario, Saha said Tripura ranks fourth in the Northeast. The state currently provides a monthly pension of ₹2,000 to 3,433 HIV-positive individuals. He stressed that combating HIV/AIDS requires the involvement of all sections of society, and called for expanding Red Ribbon Clubs in schools and colleges.
The CM also indicated plans to integrate HIV and drug abuse awareness into the school curriculum, aiming to educate students early on.
HIV Statistics in Tripura (Health Dept Data)
2022–23: 1,845 cases
2023–24: 1,790 cases
2024–25 (till Jan): 1,185 cases
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Saha cited NACO’s 2023 report, noting AIDS-related deaths per 1 lakh unaffected people in Tripura were 1.12 in 2021, dropped to 0.99 in 2022, and rose again to 1.08 in 2023.
Government initiatives to combat HIV include:
1.District-level sensitisation with principals of 220 schools where injection-based drug abuse was identified.
2.An integrated health campaign in West Tripura to detect HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and syphilis in vulnerable groups.
3.LED screens at 21 locations across the state displaying awareness messages.
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