Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha emphasized the role of sports in tackling drug addiction in the state. Addressing a gathering in Agartala, he highlighted how better sports infrastructure could help divert the youth from substance abuse. He said that many young people fall into addiction due to a lack of proper avenues for engagement. By improving sports facilities, the government aims to provide a positive alternative that keeps them active and focused on personal growth.
He stressed that the rising drug menace in Tripura and the broader North-Eastern region is a growing concern. The government has already taken strict action against drug trafficking, but preventive measures are equally important. He noted that sports not only improve physical fitness but also instill discipline and a sense of purpose in young minds. The Chief Minister reiterated that investment in sports infrastructure is an investment in the future of the state’s youth.
The government has started working on plans to enhance existing sports facilities and build new ones in various districts. The focus remains on providing proper training grounds, modern equipment, and access to professional coaching. Manik Saha mentioned that encouraging young people to participate in sports would reduce the number of drug abuse cases. He urged schools and colleges to prioritize sports activities and ensure that students receive the necessary support to pursue athletics.
He acknowledged the need for collaboration with local sports organizations and national bodies to bring better resources to Tripura. He added that talented athletes from the state often struggle due to inadequate facilities, forcing them to move elsewhere for better training. The new initiative aims to change this by offering world-class amenities within the state. He also highlighted the importance of organizing regular sports tournaments at district and state levels.
The Chief Minister assured that the government is actively working on policies to integrate sports into the fight against drug abuse. He announced that special programs would be launched to promote sports among school and college students. Additionally, awareness campaigns will be conducted to educate young people about the dangers of drug addiction. He called upon parents and teachers to encourage children to participate in physical activities from an early age.
Sports personalities and experts welcomed the initiative, stating that structured sports programs help reduce stress and anxiety, which often lead to substance abuse. They highlighted that states with better sports engagement tend to have lower cases of drug addiction among youth. Manik Saha pointed out that his government would also ensure that talented athletes receive scholarships and career support.
The administration has already started identifying key areas where new sports facilities can be developed. Officials are working on plans to upgrade stadiums and training centers to meet modern standards. He mentioned that rural areas would also be covered in this initiative to ensure equal access to sports opportunities. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that these efforts would bring positive change and create a healthier environment for the youth.
The police and law enforcement agencies have intensified their crackdown on drug-related crimes. However, Manik Saha stressed that prevention remains the most effective approach. By engaging the youth in productive activities, the state can reduce the demand for drugs and prevent addiction cases from rising. He reaffirmed that his government remains committed to creating a drug-free Tripura.
Many young athletes in the state have already shown great potential in national and international competitions. With improved facilities, Tripura could emerge as a strong sporting hub in the Northeast. Manik Saha encouraged young people to take full advantage of the upcoming sports infrastructure and actively participate in sports activities.
The state government is also planning to collaborate with corporate sponsors and non-governmental organizations to fund sports programs. He highlighted that public-private partnerships could accelerate the development of sports infrastructure and create more opportunities for aspiring athletes. He assured that the initiative would not be limited to urban areas but would extend to all regions of the state.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of mentorship programs in keeping young athletes motivated. He stated that experienced players and coaches could play a crucial role in guiding youngsters, not only in sports but also in maintaining a disciplined lifestyle. He encouraged former athletes from Tripura to take an active role in mentoring the next generation, emphasizing that having role models could further discourage youth from turning to substance abuse.
Additionally, Manik Saha announced plans to introduce structured fitness programs in schools and colleges. He explained that these programs would ensure that students engage in physical activities regularly, fostering a culture of health and wellness. He emphasized that early exposure to fitness and sports could significantly reduce the risk of students falling into harmful habits, including drug abuse.
Community sports festivals will also be organized to encourage participation from all sections of society. The Chief Minister believes that making sports more accessible and enjoyable will naturally attract more young people. He assured that special emphasis would be placed on traditional sports of Tripura, ensuring that local games and athletic events receive the recognition they deserve.
In addition to infrastructure, the government will focus on talent scouting initiatives. Manik Saha said that identifying and nurturing sports talent at an early stage is critical for long-term success. He mentioned that district-level sports trials would be conducted more frequently, allowing young athletes to showcase their skills and receive the necessary support to advance in their careers.
He also proposed collaborations with other states that have excelled in sports development. He stressed that learning from successful models could help Tripura implement the best practices in training, infrastructure, and sports promotion. The government is in discussions with national sports bodies to bring more tournaments to the state, giving local players greater exposure.
Manik Saha concluded by stating that his government is committed to fostering a strong sports culture in Tripura. He assured that no effort would be spared in ensuring that young people find inspiration and purpose through sports. He called upon local businesses and philanthropists to contribute to this mission, urging everyone to support initiatives that aim to build a brighter future for Tripura’s youth.