Agartala, August 13, 2025: Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha has called on parents to remain vigilant about their children’s activities to protect them from the lure of drugs and help create an HIV-free Tripura. He also stressed the need to increase the number of Red Ribbon Clubs in schools and colleges as part of the state’s comprehensive awareness drive against HIV/AIDS.
Speaking at a state-wide awareness bell-ringing programme organised by the Tripura State AIDS Control Society on the occasion of International Youth Day at Pragya Bhavan, Dr. Saha said, “Parents must keep an eye on where their children go and what they do. Student life has its temptations, and sometimes even good students fall into bad company. Once addiction takes hold, it becomes very hard to return.”
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the Chief Minister noted that Tripura ranks fourth among the eight North Eastern states in HIV prevalence. “We are worried about the way HIV is spreading in the region. It’s not possible for the government or agencies alone to fight this menace — people from all sections must come forward,” he said, adding that the state has adopted a “zero tolerance” policy against drugs, with increased seizures and destruction of narcotics.
Dr. Saha urged young people to build self-confidence and avoid individuals leading disorderly lives. He also encouraged open discussions about HIV prevention, saying, “Sometimes we feel ashamed to talk about safe sex and HIV, but this silence will not help. We must speak openly to protect our youth.”
Informing about government initiatives, the Chief Minister said the AIDS Control Society is raising awareness among 2.31 lakh students from classes VIII to XII in 1,187 government and aided schools. He added, “Around 3,433 HIV/AIDS patients in Tripura are receiving a monthly allowance of ₹2,000, and we are committed to their care and dignity.”
The programme saw participation from senior health and education officials, including Health Secretary Kiran Gitte, Education Special Secretary Ravel Hemendra Kumar, and Tripura AIDS Control Society Project Director Dr. Binita Chakma.
