Agartala: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has announced that the state government is finalising a comprehensive plan to step up HIV screening, particularly among high-risk and suspected cases, as part of its intensified campaign against drug abuse and related health challenges.
Speaking at a programme organised by the Tripura chapter of the Association of Surgeons of India, Saha said that officials and enforcement agencies are working relentlessly to counter the growing menace of drug trafficking. “Everybody knows the drug consignment is coming from Myanmar to Tripura via Assam and Mizoram. Tripura has become a corridor for drug smuggling,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister noted that the number of seizures, arrests, and convictions in drug-related cases has increased significantly due to stronger enforcement measures. He criticised opposition parties for questioning the government’s efforts, asserting that the growing number of recoveries reflects proactive policing rather than negligence.
Saha revealed that the government is currently preparing modalities to conduct widespread HIV screening among suspected cases, emphasising that many people still hesitate to undergo testing. “The more screening is done, the more HIV positive cases will come up,” he said, adding that early detection is vital to prevent the disease from advancing to AIDS.
On rehabilitation efforts, the Chief Minister announced the construction of a modern drug de-addiction centre at Bishramganj in Sepahijala district with assistance from the North Eastern Council (NEC). Similar centres are also planned for every district to facilitate recovery and social reintegration of drug users.
Saha further stated that 2,183 individuals living with HIV and AIDS in Tripura are currently receiving a monthly assistance of ₹2,000 each from the state government, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to ensuring both prevention and care under its health and social welfare initiatives.
