Tripura CM Manik Saha launches haemophilia programme, touts 80% drop in out-of-state referrals
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Sunday, 11 October 2026, announced a wide-ranging push to strengthen healthcare delivery across the state, highlighting that out-of-state patient referrals had fallen by nearly 80 per cent and that drug rehabilitation centres were being established in multiple districts. The remarks came during the launch of the 'Emicizumab for All Persons with Severe Haemophilia A in Tripura' programme at the Nursing College in the Agartala Government Dental College and Indira Gandhi Memorial (IGM) Hospital complex in Agartala.
Haemophilia Programme: What It Covers
Chief Minister Saha, who also holds the Health and Family Welfare portfolio, described the Emicizumab initiative as a significant step forward for patients living with severe haemophilia A in Tripura. He noted that the drug has already been introduced in several other states, including Uttar Pradesh and Kerala. The IGM Hospital has been designated as the nodal centre for the programme's rollout, with plans to extend availability to district hospitals at a later stage to ensure wider patient access. Saha added that he has had a long personal association with the Haemophilia Society.
Drug Rehabilitation and District-Level Infrastructure
Drug rehabilitation centres are being set up across several districts, according to the Chief Minister, with work on a facility at Bishramganj in Sepahijala district progressing rapidly. Trauma care centres have been established in almost all district hospitals, and cardiac care centres have been introduced at several locations. The state is also upgrading district hospital infrastructure to improve both the availability and quality of medical services for residents, including those in remote areas.
Broader Healthcare Gains Cited
Saha pointed to a sharp decline in out-of-state patient referrals — down approximately 80 per cent — as evidence that Tripura's healthcare system has materially improved. In Dhalai district, he said, deaths from water-borne diseases that were once frequently reported are no longer occurring. The state government has also launched free vaccination drives for eligible patients suffering from breast cancer, oral cancer, and other treatable cancers.
New Construction Underway
On infrastructure, the Chief Minister confirmed that a new dental building is being constructed adjacent to the existing Dental College, and that work is under way on a dedicated mother-and-child hospital at Agartala Government Medical College. The Mask Campaign — launched after the current government assumed office, with a focus on children's health — is also set to enter its ninth phase shortly.
Officials Present
Health Secretary Kiran Gitte, Hospital Director Debashree Debbarma, and other senior officials attended the event. The state's healthcare push comes as Tripura continues efforts to reduce dependence on hospitals in other states and bring specialist treatment within reach of district-level populations.