Agartala, May 05, 2025: Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Monday called on the youth of the state to actively participate in voluntary blood donation, stressing its critical role in saving lives.

Addressing the media after inaugurating a blood donation camp organized by the Tripura State Blood Transfusion Council at Pragya Bhavan in Agartala, Dr. Saha, who also holds the Health portfolio, said the state government plans to increase the number of blood banks across various administrative levels.

“At present, every district and several sub-divisions have functional blood banks. We will further enhance this network to ensure better accessibility,” the Chief Minister stated.

Highlighting the importance of regular blood collection, Dr. Saha pointed out that Tripura, with a population of approximately 40 lakh, requires a minimum blood reserve of 1 percent. “We were able to achieve this target last year,” he noted.

He also emphasized that stored blood has a limited shelf life, making consistent donation drives vital for maintaining an adequate supply.

To bolster the state’s blood management infrastructure, Dr. Saha announced that, in addition to more blood banks, the government will establish separation units to ensure efficient utilization of collected blood.

The event was attended by Health Secretary Kiran Gitte, Director of Family Welfare and Preventive Medicine Dr. Anjan Das, and GB Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr. Shankar Chakraborty, among others.