In a move aimed at strengthening Tripura’s healthcare infrastructure, Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha has requested support from Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda for the establishment of a new medical college in Kulai, located in the Aspirational District of Dhalai. The proposed institution would be developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with the aim of expanding medical education and improving healthcare access in the underserved region.

Tripura currently has three medical colleges operating in the state capital, Agartala — one government-run, one under a society, and another managed privately. Additionally, a private player has approached the state government for land to set up a new medical college in eastern Agartala.

Dr Saha underscored his government’s broader vision of positioning Tripura as a hub for education, healthcare, and tourism. Given the state's remote location and limited access to mainland markets, he noted that Tripura faces significant challenges in attracting heavy and manufacturing industries. As such, the government is focusing on the development of service-based sectors, particularly healthcare and education, to drive economic growth.

During a meeting held in New Delhi last night, Dr Saha discussed these healthcare initiatives with JP Nadda, who is also the National President of the BJP. The Chief Minister highlighted the urgent need for a medical college in Kulai and also proposed the establishment of a Tertiary Ophthalmology Hospital in Agartala to address the growing need for specialized eye care services in the region.

In addition, Dr Saha urged the Centre to help set up an Immunology Lab for Organ Transplant Services at Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC), which would significantly boost the state’s capabilities in handling complex transplant procedures.

He further appealed for financial assistance to procure advanced medical equipment for the Super Specialty Block at AGMC. Dr Saha also requested additional funding under the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) to clear pending medical claims and ensure smoother implementation of the flagship health scheme in the state.

These proposals reflect Tripura's strategic shift toward service-led development, with healthcare forming a key pillar of its growth agenda.