Agartala, December 19, 2025: Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha on Thursday lauded the rapid progress of the state’s only government dental college, calling it a “remarkable institution” in the fields of education, healthcare, and medical services within a short span of time. He described the establishment of the Agartala Government Dental College as a historic milestone that fulfilled a long-standing aspiration of the people of Tripura.
Speaking at the third foundation day celebration of the college at Muktadhara Auditorium, Dr. Saha also inaugurated the earthquake-resistant renovation and restoration work of the old IGM Hospital building. Later, he participated in the foundation stone-laying ceremony for new buildings of both the dental college and IGM Hospital.
“The journey of this government dental college began in 2023. With the proactive efforts of the state government and the sincere support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the college is progressing steadily,” said the Chief Minister. “Our students are receiving quality dental education, and the people of the state are benefiting from advanced medical services.”
Reflecting on the government’s achievements, Dr. Saha noted that no previous administration had taken such swift steps to establish a dental college. “Since coming to power in 2018, our government prioritized the needs of the people, the future of students, and the development of healthcare infrastructure. Today, this institution is gaining recognition across the country,” he added.
The college began its BDS course in the 2023–24 academic session with 50 students. The intake has since increased to 63 seats.
Dr. Saha emphasized the government’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure development and restoration projects. He assured that the renovation of the historic IGM Hospital would preserve its heritage while ensuring timely completion of the new construction.
Highlighting the significance of foundation day celebrations, the Chief Minister said, “Such occasions are a matter of pride for students and faculty alike. It is their collective responsibility to uphold the institution’s reputation through constructive actions and ideas.” Addressing students, he encouraged them to nurture their talents through dedication and hard work. “A doctor must serve without discrimination. Service-mindedness is essential, and doctors have a great responsibility toward society,” he said.
He reiterated the state government’s resolve to make healthcare accessible to all sections of society and noted that Tripura is making strides in health, education, and legal services under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi.
Distinguished guests at the event included Health Secretary Kiran Gitte, Director of Health Services Dr. Debasree Debbarma, Director of Medical Education H.P. Sharma, Director of Family Welfare and Preventive Medicine Dr. Anjan Das, State Health Mission Director Saju Wahid A., Principal of the Dental College Dr. Shalu Rai, and Academic In-Charge Associate Professor Dr. Pooja Debnath, among others.
The Chief Minister also felicitated meritorious students from various academic years with mementos and certificates. The upcoming modern dental college, to be developed under the PM-DevINE scheme of the Ministry of DoNER, will involve an investment of ₹202 crore. The project includes construction of academic and administrative blocks, 250-bed boys’ and girls’ hostels, and facilities such as UG and PG clinics, radiology units, pharmacy, seminar halls, and an auditorium—ensuring state-of-the-art education and healthcare infrastructure.
