Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha on Tuesday announced a major milestone in the state’s healthcare sector with the identification of land in Agartala for setting up Tripura’s first 100-bedded Ophthalmology Institute. The government has finalized the location for this pioneering eye care facility, which aims to offer specialized services to residents and ease the burden on patients who currently travel outside the state for treatment.
Dr. Saha, who also holds the Health portfolio, stated that the Ophthalmology Institute will be equipped with modern infrastructure and advanced medical technology to handle a wide range of eye-related diseases. The proposed facility will cater not only to Tripura but also to patients from neighboring northeastern states. He emphasized the state government’s commitment to improving health services and said that this institute would be a benchmark in eye care in the region.
The chief minister said the project is aligned with the larger vision of enhancing specialty care services and building world-class medical infrastructure in the state. He also noted that the land acquisition process has been completed and construction work is likely to begin soon. The institute will include outpatient and inpatient wings, surgical facilities, diagnostic services, and training units for ophthalmologists and paramedics.
Dr. Saha added that the new facility will reduce dependency on private clinics and hospitals outside Tripura, thereby saving time and money for the public. He pointed out that cases of cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye conditions are on the rise, and a dedicated ophthalmic center has become a necessity.
In another development aimed at boosting the tourism sector, the chief minister announced that the state would soon introduce a dedicated tourist police unit. The initiative is designed to improve the safety and experience of tourists visiting various parts of Tripura. The tourist police will be specially trained to assist travelers, address their queries, and ensure security at key tourist destinations.
Dr. Saha said that the tourism department, in collaboration with the home department, will begin recruitment and training for the tourist police force in the coming weeks. He added that the officers will be stationed at important locations such as Ujjayanta Palace, Neermahal, Unakoti, and other heritage and eco-tourism sites. The goal is to make Tripura a preferred and safe destination for both domestic and international tourists.
The chief minister expressed optimism that improved healthcare and better tourism management would drive overall development in Tripura. He said the government is working on multiple fronts to build a healthier, safer, and more attractive state.
Earlier this week, the state cabinet approved several proposals related to urban development, education, and employment, all of which reflect the administration’s focus on inclusive progress. Dr. Saha emphasized that public service delivery must improve in tandem with infrastructure growth.
He urged people to cooperate with the government’s initiatives and reiterated that public health, tourism, and employment generation remain top priorities. According to officials from the Health and Family Welfare Department, the Ophthalmology Institute will also collaborate with national health missions and leading eye hospitals in India to bring in best practices and training modules.
Meanwhile, senior officials in the Tourism Department said that the tourist police force will serve as a model for other northeastern states and help promote responsible tourism. They confirmed that uniforms, helpline numbers, and signage at key locations are already being designed to support the rollout.
As Tripura moves forward with these landmark decisions, both locals and visitors are expected to benefit significantly. The dual focus on health and tourism showcases a balanced and forward-looking governance model that prioritizes both well-being and economic growth.
To complement the infrastructure for the upcoming Ophthalmology Institute, the state government also plans to introduce mobile eye care units in remote and tribal areas. These units will provide screening, basic treatment, and referrals, ensuring that people in far-flung villages receive timely eye care without traveling to urban centers. Health officials have already begun identifying high-need regions based on recent health surveys.
In addition, training workshops for primary health workers and ASHA volunteers on basic ophthalmic care are in the pipeline. These training sessions will empower local workers to detect early symptoms of vision problems and encourage patients to seek specialized treatment at the institute once it becomes operational.
The state government also intends to tie up with reputed institutions like AIIMS and LV Prasad Eye Institute for teleconsultation services, especially during the initial phase of the institute. Officials say these collaborations will help bridge the expertise gap while local talent is trained.
On the tourism front, the launch of the tourist police will be accompanied by a mobile app for tourists, which is currently under development. The app will include features like emergency contact numbers, directions to nearby help centers, translation support, and safety tips. Officials believe the digital initiative will enhance the state’s image as a tourist-friendly destination.
There are also plans to introduce awareness campaigns for local shopkeepers, guides, and hotel staff to sensitise them about tourist etiquette and support. The goal is to create a welcoming environment that reflects Tripura’s cultural warmth and hospitality.