MSSSKA 8.0: Tripura intensifies fight against TB and malnutrition
Agartala Oct 24: Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Friday expressed confidence that the Mukhyamantri Sustha Shaishab and Sustho Koishor Abhiyan (MSSSKA) will once again achieve complete success. He added that the state government has launched multiple initiatives aimed at making Tripura free from tuberculosis (TB).
While inaugurating the state-wide MSSSKA 8.0 campaign at Teliamura in Khowai district, Dr. Saha said that the government is committed to further strengthening the health sector in the state.
The annual campaign is jointly organised by the Health and Family Welfare Department, the School Education Department, and the Social Welfare and Social Education Department.
Highlighting the government’s independent efforts, Dr. Saha, who also holds the Health and Family Welfare portfolio, stated that the MSSSKA campaign is a state-driven initiative designed to promote the physical and nutritional well-being of children and adolescents.
“This initiative focuses on raising healthy and happy children while ensuring proper development of their health and nutrition. It aims to prevent worm infections, eliminate vitamin deficiencies, and tackle issues related to diarrhea and iron deficiency,” he said.
Dr. Saha, a dental surgeon by profession, noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi places great emphasis on the holistic growth of children—both physically and mentally—since a healthy young generation is essential for India’s progress. He also pointed out that malnutrition and anemia continue to affect many children across the country.
Emphasising that the campaign seeks the overall development of young people, the Chief Minister said that MSSSKA covers children from birth up to 19 years of age. This year, the target group includes 10,59,182 children and adolescents, and the campaign will run until October 30.
Dr. Saha further mentioned that a series of health awareness drives have been planned across the state in connection with the campaign. Under MSSSKA, iron and folic acid supplements will be distributed among children aged between six months and 19 years.
“Many children experience breathing difficulties along with symptoms like diarrhea and fever. Through this campaign, we aim to detect and address such health issues early,” the Chief Minister said.
He added that the campaign also focuses on mental well-being, hygiene, and preventive measures against substance abuse and smoking.
“The government is conducting a state-wide anti-drug campaign. Law enforcement and other security agencies are consistently acting against drug traffickers. Moreover, special attention will be given to tea gardens, brick kilns, slum areas, orphanages, and private educational institutions under this initiative,” Dr. Saha stated.
Expressing concern over the growing threat of HIV in the state, he urged people to take the issue seriously. “Public awareness about HIV/AIDS must increase, and the use of injectable drugs should be stopped to prevent further spread,” he added. (With inputs from IANS)
