Agartala, Aug 1: Tripura is moving closer to establishing its first dedicated Health University, with Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha announcing on Saturday that the recruitment process for the institution's first Vice-Chancellor will begin shortly.

Speaking at the foundation day celebration of Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC) and Govinda Ballabh Pant (GBP) Hospital, the Chief Minister said the legislation for setting up the Tripura University of Health Sciences has already been passed by the State Assembly and the university is expected to become operational soon.

The proposed university is expected to provide a common academic platform for medical, nursing, dental and allied health education in the state, strengthening medical education and research.

Highlighting the transformation of Tripura's healthcare sector, Dr. Saha said the state has significantly reduced its dependence on outside medical institutions, with referrals for treatment outside Tripura dropping by nearly 80 per cent in recent years.

He credited the achievement to the dedication of doctors, healthcare workers and continuous improvements in healthcare infrastructure and specialised medical services.

Calling for greater adoption of technology in healthcare, the Chief Minister urged medical professionals to embrace innovation to improve patient care and strengthen the state's health system.

Describing AGMC and GBP Hospital as institutions that extend beyond healthcare delivery, Dr. Saha said they have evolved into centres of medical education, research, humanitarian service and ethical values, earning recognition across the Northeast.

The foundation day programme also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between AGMC and Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Viveknagar, aimed at promoting collaboration in education, community service and holistic human development.

The agreement was signed by Swami Subhakarananda Maharaj on behalf of Ramakrishna Math and Mission and AGMC Principal Prof. (Dr.) Tapan Majumdar.

In another significant gesture during the programme, the All Tripura Government Doctors Association (ATGDA) contributed Rs. 1 lakh to the Assam Chief Minister's Relief Fund to support people affected by floods in the neighbouring state. The cheque was presented to Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha.

Outstanding students of AGMC were also felicitated for their academic achievements during the celebration.

The programme was attended by Health Secretary Kiran Gitte, NHM Tripura Mission Director Saju Vaheed A, Rogi Kalyan Samity Chairperson Mina Rani Sarkar, Swami Subhakarananda Maharaj and senior officials of the Health Department.