Agartala, July 31: Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Thursday claimed that the doctors in Tripura are now capable of running medical institutions. Dr Saha said this while inaugurating two days long blood donation camp and plantation drive here at the Vivekananda Auditorium of Tripura Medical College (TMC) in Hapania.
Addressing the event, Dr Saha said, “Medical professionals in Tripura have now gained sufficient experience to independently run medical institutions.” He emphasized the need to reduce dependency on specialists from outside the state and focus on building internal capacity.
The programme was jointly organized by Tripura Medical College, Rotary Club, and the Employees Association of Tripura Medical and Nursing College.
Dr. Saha stated that the state government is continuously working to improve the health infrastructure of Tripura with the vision of transforming the state into a medical hub. “Significant efforts have been made since 2018 to upgrade the healthcare sector. Today, apart from state and district-level hospitals, Tripura also has a dental college, nursing college, pharmacy college, and more,” he said.
Highlighting a major development, the Chief Minister mentioned that a corporate-style Super Specialty Block has been constructed at AGMC and GBP Hospital with an investment of around ₹250 crore. Plans are also underway to establish a fully equipped eye hospital adjacent to ILS Hospital.
Speaking about Tripura Medical College, Dr. Saha remarked, “Among medical institutions in the Northeast, TMC holds a special place. This institution, built over time with care and dedication, has now become a symbol of trust for many.”
On the importance of blood donation, Dr. Saha noted, “Blood has no religion. It is through blood donation that we nurture the spirit of humanity.” He informed that a healthy adult male can donate blood four times a year, and a healthy adult female can donate three times a year. Presently, Tripura has 14 blood banks operating under both public and private sectors. He urged citizens to take part in mass awareness movements against drug addiction, HIV, and AIDS.
Regarding tree plantation, the CM reminded the audience of nature’s essential role in human survival. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, he said, “It’s time we move forward with inspiration from nature and take responsibility for preserving it.”
The event also witnessed the launch of the Rotary Club’s flagship programme for the upcoming year—”Drishtipath”. Under this initiative, assistive devices will be provided to patients undergoing hip and knee replacement, and free eyeglasses will be distributed to children under 14 years. As a symbolic gesture, the Chief Minister personally handed over aid materials and eyeglasses to two beneficiaries.
