Agartala, July 17: Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Thursday attended an awareness programme held on ‘Nesha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ and reaffirmed the state government’s firm stance on curbing illegal drug trafficking, asserting that Tripura is following a “zero-tolerance policy” in alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a healthy and drug-free society.
Addressing a mega awareness programme on ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ and prevention of child marriage at the Gandhi Gram Higher Secondary School ground under Bamutia Block, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for collective societal efforts to combat substance abuse and child marriage.
“The menace of drug addiction and social evils like child marriage can only be eradicated when every section of society steps forward and contributes. These issues destroy human resources and hinder the growth of a healthy society,” CM Dr Saha said.
The event was organized by the West Tripura Zilla Parishad as part of a broad campaign to build awareness against drugs and child marriage. On the occasion, the Chief Minister, along with other dignitaries, felicitated six students who won the slogan writing and sit-and-draw competitions with certificates and prizes. Additionally, six meritorious students from West Tripura who topped the TBSE and CBSE examinations were also awarded.
Highlighting the rising threat of narcotics trafficking, Dr. Saha said, “Some unscrupulous individuals are attempting to use Tripura as a transit corridor for drug smuggling. However, the state government is taking stringent measures. No one involved in this illegal trade will be spared.”
He noted a significant increase in drug seizures and arrests in recent months as a result of the government’s intensified operations under the zero-tolerance framework.
Dr. Saha called upon students and the youth to stay vigilant and informed about the ill effects of drug abuse, HIV/AIDS, and child marriage. He urged teachers and parents to organize regular awareness sessions in schools and keep a close eye on the behavior of children.
“The government is also considering incorporating awareness on child marriage prevention into the school curriculum,” the CM added. “It is not enough for students to just perform well in exams. They must also become socially responsible individuals.”
The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of true knowledge and moral development during student life, urging everyone to turn the awareness campaign into a mass movement across neighborhoods to ensure a healthier and more conscious society.
