AGARTALA: Tripura chief minister Manik Saha voiced deep concern on Thursday (March 14) regarding the escalating HIV/AIDS cases in the state, with an alarming rate of 150 to 200 individuals being infected by the disease each month.
He also highlighted the growing prevalence of intravenous drug use, particularly among students and youths, as a major contributing factor to this concerning trend.
Speaking at a sensitization program on HIV/AIDS held at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan, Saha, who also oversees the Tripura health and family welfare department, revealed that as of January, a total of 5330 people had been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in Tripura, including 1033 women and 558 students.
The day-long program, organized by the Tripura AIDS Control Society under the state health department, saw the participation of college principals, headmasters, teachers, guardians, students, and health officials.
Emphasizing the critical role of the teaching community in addressing this issue, the Tripura chief minister stressed the importance of monitoring and supervision to combat the HIV/AIDS menace effectively.
He pointed out that Manipur has historically been at the forefront of intravenous drug use in the Northeast states since the 1970s and called for concerted efforts towards achieving a “Nasha Mukt” (drug-free) India.
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Saha shared a poignant anecdote of a student from Belonia in south Tripura who, despite being a promising student and athlete, succumbed to drug addiction before eventually overcoming it after five years of struggle.
Encouraging community participation, Saha urged clubs, social organizations, and groups to raise awareness among youths about the dangers of drug abuse and other vices.
He highlighted the misuse of disposable syringes due to financial constraints and ignorance as a significant contributor to the spread of HIV/AIDS.
The Tripura chief minister disclosed the government’s plans to establish eight drug de-addiction centres across eight districts to provide support and guidance to youths battling addiction.
He also underscored the need for collaborative efforts between security forces, government agencies, and NGOs to combat drug trafficking in the state.
In conclusion, Saha urged vigilance among parents and guardians to safeguard their children from falling prey to the drug menace, reaffirming the government’s commitment to creating a drug-free Tripura through concerted action and community involvement.