Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr Manik Saha on Saturday said that Gobinda Ballav Pant (GBP) Hospital in Agartala played crucial role during the 1971 war by saving thousands of injured ‘Muktijoddhas’ (liberation war fighters) of Bangladesh.

The Chief Minister inaugurated the 63rd foundation day of AGMC and GBP Hospital, including the inauguration of the Super Specialty building, newly renovated paediatric ward & PICU, Geriatric Ward, and Female Medicine ward.

“Previously, people only knew of IGM hospital, which was known as Victoria Memorial (VM) hospital in Agartala. When the number of patients started to increase, GB Pant hospital was established in 1961. Many people claimed that the Manikya dynasty never did anything for Tripura, but it was Kirit Bir Bikram Manikya Bahadur who donated the land for setting up this hospital. This hospital has gained many achievements and earned good names as well. Especially during the 1971 war, many injured ‘Muktijoddhas’ of Bangladesh were treated in this hospital. The people of Bangladesh still remember the tireless efforts of the doctors who saved many Bangladeshis Muktijoddha (liberation war). Even Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is aware of this, which is why she has a special affection for this state,” said Dr Saha.

Dr Saha also mentioned that the present state government is committed to developing the overall healthcare system by introducing new medical facilities, ensuring that the people receive enhanced services.

“Providing better health services to the people is a priority for the government. This year's budget has also given importance to the development of health services and infrastructure. Similar to the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, the country's largest health plan, the Chief Minister Jan Arogya Yojana has been launched in Tripura. The department has been instructed to issue cards under this scheme. The government has taken various steps to improve the medical services and infrastructure of GBP Hospital. The government's goal is to ensure that the people of the state receive better medical services in these hospitals,” Dr Saha stated.

During the program, Chief Secretary JK Sinha, Secretary of the health department Sandip Rathor, and Medical Superintendent of GB Pant Hospital Dr Sankar Chakraborty were present.