Agartala, August 16, 2025: Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Friday reiterated his government’s stand of “zero tolerance” towards drug-related activities and directed police and enforcement agencies to act firmly without showing any leniency.

Speaking at a voluntary blood donation camp organized by Aurobinda Sangha at AD Nagar Higher Secondary School ground, Dr. Saha said, “Drug mafias are being targeted through intensified police and agency operations. Compared to last year, drug destruction has increased by 132%, while seizures have gone up by over 103%. Parents must remain alert, as even girls are increasingly falling prey to addiction.”

The Chief Minister emphasized that while Tripura continues to fight against the menace of drugs, the state also stands ahead of many others in voluntary blood donation. “There is no greater donation than blood donation. Unlike food or money, blood cannot be bought and carries a divine value,” he said, urging more awareness campaigns before such drives.

Highlighting the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dr. Saha underlined the environmental importance of tree plantation. “A mature tree supplies 260 pounds of oxygen every year and absorbs about 50 pounds of carbon dioxide. This is why afforestation and awareness are so crucial,” he said.

The Chief Minister noted that Tripura currently has 14 blood banks comprising 12 government and two private functioning under the State Blood Transfusion Council to ensure sufficient supply.

Reflecting on development, Dr. Saha said the state is working to overcome challenges stemming from decades of misrule. “India has risen from 11th to 4th position in the global economy. Tripura today ranks second in the Northeast in terms of GSDP and per capita income,” he added.

The programme was attended by Badharghat MLA Mina Rani Sarkar, AMC corporator Alok Roy, Arabinda Sangha president Shyamal Kanti Dey, secretary Supriya Ghosh and other dignitaries.