Tripura, 19 Dec 2025: The third foundation day of Agartala Government Dental College was observed with enthusiasm on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in Tripura’s higher medical education journey. Chief Minister Manik Saha inaugurated the programme at the college auditorium and described the institution as a historic achievement and a long-cherished dream of the people of the state.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that within a short span of time, the government dental college has emerged as a notable institution in the fields of education, healthcare and public service. He noted that the college, which began its journey in 2023, is progressing steadily due to the proactive initiatives of the present state government and the support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
On the same occasion, the Chief Minister also inaugurated earthquake-resistant renovation and restoration works of the old IGM Hospital building and later laid the foundation stone for new buildings of the dental college and IGM Hospital. He expressed confidence that the new infrastructure would significantly enhance healthcare services in the state.
Highlighting academic progress, the Chief Minister said that the college started its BDS course in the 2023–24 academic session with 50 students, and the intake has now increased to 63 students. He added that students of Tripura are now getting opportunities for quality dental education within the state, while residents are benefiting from improved dental healthcare services.
Recalling past experiences, the Chief Minister remarked that no previous government had taken such a major initiative to establish a dental college in such a short period. Keeping in mind public demand, students’ future and the overall improvement of the health system, the present government ensured the timely start of the institution. He also assured that renovation of the old IGM Hospital would be carried out while preserving its historical significance, and that all construction and reform works would be completed within the stipulated timeframe.
Speaking on the occasion, Health Secretary Kiran Gitte said that the state government is continuously taking multiple steps to improve healthcare delivery. He informed that nearly 82 percent of Tripura’s population is now availing government healthcare services, reflecting increased public trust in the system.
The programme was also addressed by the Principal of Agartala Government Dental College, Dr. Shalu Rai. Senior officials present included Director of Medical Education H.P. Sharma, Director of Family Welfare and Disease Prevention Dr. Arjun Das, and State Health Mission Director A. Badhin, among others. Academic In-charge of the college, Professor Dr. Puja Debnath, delivered the vote of thanks.
During the event, meritorious students of different academic years were felicitated by the Chief Minister with mementoes and certificates.
It was informed that under a project of the Union Ministry of Donor, the modern dental college is being developed at an estimated cost of ₹202 crore. The project includes construction of academic and administrative blocks, a 250-seat boys’ and girls’ hostel, and state-of-the-art facilities such as UG and PG clinics, radiology unit, pharmacy, seminar halls and an auditorium, aimed at providing advanced education and healthcare services in the state.
