First Kidney Transplantation in Tripura: A Medical Milestone !!!

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, July 8, 2024

This groundbreaking achievement, the first kidney transplantation in Tripura, was made possible by the exceptional skills and dedication of our doctors, the strategic leadership of the Chief Minister, Prof (Dr) Manik Saha, and the administrative acumen of the Health Secretary, Shri Kiran Gitte, IAS. Their unwavering commitment to healthcare and strategic decisions paved the way for this historic event.

The first kidney transplantation in Tripura was performed (as I have reliably learned, I am away in Gujarat ) at GBP Hospital, Agartala, on 08/07/2024. This was a momentous occasion for the state, as it marked a significant milestone in its medical history. The successful surgery was the result of the expertise of the doctors of Tripura, who have proven their skills and competence in the face of many challenges. The doctors of Tripura are second to none- only they require basic infrastructure and access to state-of-the-art learning. It was also the outcome of the visionary leadership of the Chief Minister, Prof (Dr) Manik Saha, and the administrative acumen of the Health Secretary, Shri Kiran Gitte, IAS. Their tireless efforts and strategic planning have played a crucial role in bringing this medical breakthrough to the state, for which we are all grateful. Let me highlight how the gifted doctors of Tripura and these two officials played a crucial role in bringing this medical breakthrough to the state and what it means for the future of health care in Tripura.

Prof (Dr) Manik Saha is not only the Chief Minister of Tripura but also a renowned medical doctor and academician. He has a deep understanding of the health issues and needs of the state and has always been keen to improve the quality and accessibility of health care for the people. He has initiated several reforms and schemes to enhance the infrastructure, equipment, and human resources of the health sector in Tripura. He has also promoted the use of technology and innovation to overcome the limitations and challenges faced by the state in delivering health services. One of his most ambitious projects was to make Tripura the first state in the country to perform kidney transplantation, which would save the lives of many patients suffering from chronic kidney disease and reduce their dependence on dialysis. He envisioned that Tripura would become a hub of excellence and innovation in nephrology and urology and attract patients from other states and countries, ushering in a new era of healthcare in the state.

Shri Kiran Gitte, IAS, is the Health Secretary of Tripura and a dynamic and efficient administrator. He has been instrumental in implementing the Chief Minister's vision and ensuring the smooth functioning of the health department. He has proactively addressed the issues and challenges faced by the health sector. He has taken several measures to improve the coordination, monitoring, and evaluation of the health programs and schemes. He has also supported the doctors and health workers and facilitated their training, capacity building, and motivation. He has been particularly involved in the preparation and execution of the kidney transplantation project and has ensured that all the necessary arrangements, approvals, and protocols were in place. He has also been in constant touch with the doctors and the patients and has provided them with guidance and assistance throughout the process. He has also been responsible for creating awareness and publicity about the project and has engaged with the media and the public to disseminate the information and achievements of the health department.

The first kidney transplantation in Tripura is not only a medical achievement but also a symbol of hope and progress for the state. It demonstrates the potential and capability of the state to provide world-class health care to its people and to overcome the barriers and constraints that have hindered its development. It also showcases the dedication and professionalism of Tripura's doctors and health workers, who have worked tirelessly and selflessly to make this possible. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed and are a testament to their commitment to the welfare and prosperity of the state. This achievement will undoubtedly pave the way for more medical advancements and innovations in Tripura and will improve the health outcomes and quality of life of the people. It will also inspire and motivate the young and aspiring doctors and health workers of the state to pursue their dreams and goals, and to contribute to the welfare and prosperity of the state. Kudos to everyone involved!

Having said all this, much has to be done to reshape the GBP Hospital, the only referral Hospital.I had the opportunity to go to the GBP Hospital a few months back. Curious, I roamed the general wards of the hospital. The hell is perhaps cleaner and more sanitized. A foul smell—malodorous, musty, rotten, putrid—emits everywhere. I felt like I was entering hell. It is better not to describe the condition of the toilets. The stinking smell of clogged nightsoil pollutes the whole atmosphere. I think toilets are more important than temples. No matter how many temples we visit, we will not get salvation. We need to give priority to toilets and cleanliness. Sadly, almost all the toilets in the GBP hospital are overflowing. Indian-style toilets and commodes are very rare and far between.

The patients always complain about the quality of the meals being served. Irked by the poor quality of food served to them, some patients at the hospital, as I learned, have threatened to go on a fast unless authorities addressed the issue. The matter is subject to verification, though. The patients complained that because of the “pathetic” quality of the food, they suffered from loose motions, stomach aches, and acidity. Some patients remain on an empty stomach as they have no other option.

But still, a new beginning has been made; we should be optimistic. A new beginning has been triggered by various factors, such as personal, professional, social, or environmental. Some factors may be within our control, while others may be beyond our influence. Regardless of the cause, a new beginning can positively affect our lives. May God bless Tripura.

I again congratulate the doctors who have made possible what was until then impossible. They have not only advanced the frontiers of science and medicine, but they have also given hope and healing to millions worldwide. Their work is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and compassion and a source of inspiration for generations to come.