Agartala (Tripura), May 30: Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha emphasized the critical need to identify and nurture sports talent from both urban and rural areas to elevate the state’s athletic standards. Speaking at an event organized by the Tripura Cricket Association (TCA) at the MBB Club House in Agartala on Friday, Dr Manik Saha reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to fostering new sporting talent and enhancing sports infrastructure across Tripura.
The event saw Dr. Saha inaugurate a voluntary blood donation camp and launch battery-powered beverage carts for cricketers, initiatives aimed at supporting both community welfare and sports development.
In his address, the Chief Minister praised the TCA for its pivotal role in advancing cricket in Tripura. He noted that while urban areas like Agartala are often the focus, there are numerous gifted athletes residing in remote parts of the state who deserve recognition and exposure.
“Consistent practice is the cornerstone of success in sports,” Dr. Saha said, stressing the importance of strong coach-athlete relationships to refine skills and overcome challenges.
Dr Saha remarked, “Coaches, too, play a crucial role in guiding athletes and addressing their challenges. It is equally important to build strong, supportive relationships between players and coaches, which will facilitate the proper development of raw talent.”
He highlighted the government’s dual responsibility to create opportunities for athletes and celebrate their achievements while ensuring transparency and holistic progress across sectors.
Tripura is incorporating modern equipment to enhance cricket infrastructure. The Tripura Cricket Association is actively contributing to the government’s efforts for the overall development of sports.
Dr. Saha also commended the TCA’s contributions beyond cricket, noting its support during last year’s devastating floods and the COVID-19 pandemic. Turning to the blood donation drive, he underscored the irreplaceable value of human blood donations.
“Only humans can bridge the gap between blood demand and supply,” he said, noting that Tripura currently operates 14 blood banks under the state’s Blood Transfusion Council. He urged TCA-affiliated clubs and organizations to actively participate in such initiatives.
The Chief Minister personally visited the donation camp, engaging with donors and applauding their altruistic efforts. A total of 114 individuals donated blood, bolstering the state’s efforts to meet its blood supply needs.
Dr Manik Saha Inaugurates Blood Donation Drive, Launches Beverage Carts for Cricketers at TCA event
Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Tinku Roy, a special guest at the event, echoed Dr. Saha’s sentiments, lauding the TCA’s year-round dedication to nurturing cricket talent, especially from rural areas. “The state government is committed to providing platforms for athletes and ensuring their achievements are celebrated,” Roy said.
The program featured a welcome address by TCA Secretary Subrata Dey and remarks from dignitaries, including Debashish Chandra Das, Regional Manager of SBI. TCA president Tapan Lodh delivered a vote of thanks, concluding the event.
This initiative underscores Tripura’s integrated approach to promoting sports and community welfare, demonstrating how these efforts intertwine to drive progress in the state.
