Tripura CM Dr. Manik Saha announces plans to integrate Sex Education and HIV/AIDS awareness into school curricula for Classes 8-12, emphasizing proactive measures to combat rising HIV cases linked to drug abuse. The initiative, discussed at a Tripura AIDS Control Society event, aims to educate youth and curb the epidemic.
Agartala Jun 19: Tripura Chief Minister and Health Minister Prof. Dr Manik Saha on Wednesday announced that the state government is actively considering incorporating a chapter on Sex Education and HIV/AIDS awareness into the school syllabus for Classes 8 to 12. A discussion with the Education Department on this matter is expected to take place soon.
Dr Saha urged public representatives to actively participate in anti-drug campaigns. “Tripura was the first state in the country to introduce Red Ribbon Clubs in schools to promote HIV/AIDS awareness among students. These initiatives will help create a knowledgeable and alert younger generation.”
Dr Manik Saha made the announcement during an awareness event organised by the Tripura State AIDS Control Society in the lobby of the Tripura Legislative Assembly. The event was attended by members of the Tripura Legislative Forum on HIV/AIDS, along with senior officials and legislators.
“These discussions are crucial, especially when questions on such issues arise during Assembly sessions. We must unite in our efforts to eradicate HIV/AIDS and respond to it with sensitivity and strategic awareness. The screening process is helping us identify the number of people living with the virus—something we also practiced during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Dr. Saha said.
Highlighting the importance of political leaders playing a role in raising awareness, he added, “Even if public representatives dedicate just five minutes during their speeches to speak about HIV/AIDS, it will leave a significant impact and enhance public understanding.”
He expressed deep concern over the rising number of HIV/AIDS cases in the state, attributing some of the causes to Tripura’s geographical proximity to Bangladesh and the inflow of narcotics through the border. “If we can identify the root causes and educate people, we can bring about change. That’s why we are proposing to include Sex Education and HIV/AIDS awareness in the school curriculum. There is no hesitation about this—it’s a pressing need,” he asserted.
Dr. Saha also suggested that funds from MLAs’ discretionary resources could be utilized to support HIV/AIDS patients. “It’s not only boys, but girls are also getting affected. Engaging the youth in sports, cultural events, and other constructive activities can help steer them away from drugs and reduce their vulnerability to HIV/AIDS,” he emphasized.
Reiterating the government’s uncompromising stance on the drug menace, the Chief Minister noted, “Tripura has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against narcotics. Compared to last year, the volume of drug seizures in 2024 has risen by 106%, while the destruction of confiscated drugs has increased by 132%.”
Dr Manik Saha urged public representatives to actively participate in anti-drug campaigns. “Tripura was the first state in the country to introduce Red Ribbon Clubs in schools to promote HIV/AIDS awareness among students. These initiatives will help create a knowledgeable and alert younger generation.”
Dr. Saha called for the creation of youth ambassadors who can take forward awareness campaigns against substance abuse and the spread of HIV. “We must identify the core reasons behind the rise in HIV/AIDS cases. This issue must not be politicized—viruses don’t recognize political affiliations,” he stated.
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The programme was attended by several key dignitaries, including Speaker Biswabandhu Sen, Deputy Speaker Ram Prasad Paul, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ratan Lal Nath, Chief Whip Kalyani Saha Roy, DGP Anurag, Health Secretary Kiran Gitte, and multiple Members of the Legislative Assembly.
