Agartala: Marking World Health Day 2025, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha led a rally in Agartala on Monday, underscoring the urgent need to combat drug abuse, the rising prevalence of HIV/AIDS, and the ongoing issue of child marriage in the state.
Participating in the event organised by the Hepatitis Foundation of Tripura (HFT), Saha—who also holds the Health and Family Welfare portfolio—stressed that these are not merely health concerns, but deep-rooted societal challenges that must be addressed to build a healthier and more progressive Tripura.
“These issues—drug addiction, HIV/AIDS, and child marriage—are interconnected social evils that hinder the path to a healthier society,” the chief minister said.
He noted with concern the increase in HIV cases, particularly among injectable drug users.
This year’s World Health Day was observed under the theme ‘Healthy Beginning, Hopeful Future’, and saw widespread participation across the state.
In Agartala, the rally drew hundreds of participants, including doctors, nurses, medical students, health workers, school children, security personnel, and members of the general public.
During his address, the chief minister reaffirmed the government’s focus on strengthening Tripura’s healthcare system.
He announced plans to set up a dedicated eye hospital, a move he said aligns with the state’s broader vision of becoming a medical hub in the Northeast.
“Tripura is now one of the most peaceful states in the country, and this stability is drawing increased investment—including in healthcare,” Saha said.
He encouraged residents to make use of the super-specialty medical facilities now available within the state, rather than seeking costly treatment elsewhere.
Dr. Pradip Bhowmik, founder of the Hepatitis Foundation of Tripura and a noted physician, also addressed the gathering.
He emphasised the importance of maternal health care, especially during pregnancy, and advocated for greater awareness on preventing child marriage and promoting the well-being of the girl child.
“Ensuring proper healthcare for pregnant mothers—before, during, and after childbirth—is essential to securing the health of future generations,” Dr. Bhowmik said, also stressing the importance of healthy lifestyles to prevent disease.
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The rally proceeded through key streets of Agartala, with participants carrying placards and spreading messages focused on physical and mental well-being, healthy habits, and social awareness.
World Health Day, observed globally on April 7, commemorates the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948.
Since 1950, it has served as a global platform to highlight pressing health issues and promote public health awareness.
