Agartala, August 12, 2025: In a major initiative aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles among young people, Tripura Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha on Tuesday inaugurated the state-wide ‘Bell of Awareness’ campaign to prevent substance abuse and reduce the risk of HIV/AIDS among adolescents.
The programme, jointly organised by the School Education Department and the Tripura AIDS Control Society under the Health Department, was launched at Pragya Bhavan in Agartala. As part of the initiative, awareness activities were simultaneously conducted in nearly 6,000 classrooms across 1,187 schools, reaching around 2.31 lakh students from Classes 8 to 12.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Saha stressed the growing need to educate young people about the dangers of drug and substance abuse, which has emerged as a significant social and public health challenge in many parts of the country. He noted that substance abuse not only affects physical and mental health but also increases vulnerability to risky behaviours that can contribute to the spread of HIV/AIDS and other infections.
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The Chief Minister highlighted the importance of early intervention and awareness programmes in schools, saying that informed students are better equipped to make responsible decisions and resist harmful influences. He urged teachers, parents and community leaders to work together in guiding adolescents towards healthy and productive lives.
The event also marked the launch of an Intensified Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Campaign, designed to strengthen awareness efforts through educational materials, counselling sessions and community outreach programmes.
Officials said the campaign seeks to foster a culture of awareness and prevention among students, encouraging them to become ambassadors of positive change within their schools and communities. Authorities expressed confidence that the initiative would play a crucial role in protecting the state's youth from addiction-related risks and promoting greater understanding of HIV/AIDS prevention, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more informed generation.
