How Will Over 2.31 Lakh Students in Tripura Receive HIV/AIDS Awareness Training?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Over 231,000 students to receive HIV/AIDS training.
- Importance of parental vigilance in combating drug abuse.
- Increased Red Ribbon Clubs in schools.
- Tripura's aim for a drug-free and HIV-free state.
- Monthly support for HIV/AIDS-infected individuals.
Agartala, Aug 12 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha, emphasized on Tuesday that parents must exercise extra vigilance regarding their children in the ongoing battle against drugs.
He also highlighted the importance of increasing the number of Red Ribbon Clubs in educational institutions to combat HIV/AIDS. Saha believes that a united effort can help make Tripura an HIV-free state.
During the state-level ‘Bell of Awareness program’ organized by the Tripura State AIDS Control Society on the occasion of International Youth Day at Pragya Bhavan, he expressed concern regarding the spread of HIV in the Northeastern region, noting that Tripura currently ranks fourth among the eight Northeastern states, which is alarming.
Saha, who also oversees the Health and Family Welfare portfolio, was pleased to see approximately 6,000 students participate in the preventive awareness initiative against AIDS, marked by the ringing of a bell.
He cautioned that drug use often begins innocently but can quickly lead to addiction. Therefore, vigilance regarding drug usage is essential from the outset.
In his address, the Chief Minister urged parents to remain alert about the drug menace, noting a tendency among students to engage in negative behaviors.
“Even well-behaved students can sometimes fall under bad influences. Many who start using drugs initially understand the dangers, but that realization fades as addiction takes hold,” Saha remarked.
He reiterated the need for parents to monitor their children's activities closely, stating, “It is crucial to know where your children are going and what they are doing.”
“Students must also work on their self-esteem to resist drugs. They should be resolute about avoiding negative influences and remain distant from those leading chaotic lifestyles. If required, teachers should be notified. Both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have voiced their commitment to a drug-free India. We are committed to realizing a drug-free Tripura and a drug-free India, implementing a zero-tolerance policy towards drugs,” Saha stated.
He further emphasized the necessity of raising awareness about the potential challenges associated with drug use.
The Tripura State AIDS Control Society is working on spreading awareness to approximately 231,000 students from classes 8 to 12 across about 1,187 government and government-aided schools.
Such awareness efforts are crucial in staying clear of AIDS. “To date, around 3,433 HIV/AIDS-infected individuals in Tripura have been provided a monthly support of Rs 2,000,” he added.