The Tripura State AIDS Control Society (TSACS) has rolled out a fleet of mobile bike units to improve HIV detection and outreach across all eight districts of the state.
Launched under the Health and Family Welfare Department, the initiative includes eight bikes that will mainly cover hard-to-reach areas, especially rural and hilly regions where access to testing and awareness services is still limited.
At a flag-off event held on Saturday morning, TSACS Project Director Dr. Binita Chakma handed over the bikes to trained staff from eight partner NGOs. These teams will conduct on-ground HIV screening, awareness campaigns, and also refer people for treatment when needed.
Speaking at the event, Chakma said that HIV detection in the state has picked up pace and expanding screening services has been a key focus. “With these mobile bikes reaching every district, services can now be made available in almost any area, at any time. This will be a big help for the public,” she said.
Officials added that the programme is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen HIV/AIDS interventions, which have seen increased focus over the past year. TSACS is giving special attention to early detection and treatment, especially among youth and people affected by drug use.
The mobile units are also expected to make services more accessible for pregnant women by ensuring timely testing and care, while improving outreach in remote and underserved communities.