Agartala, 4th July 2026: Tripura’s Scheduled Caste Welfare Minister Sudhangshu Das on Saturday extended financial assistance of ₹50,000 to the family of 22-month-old Manashree Chowdhury, who is battling a rare and life-threatening neuromuscular disorder. The minister accompanied by his wife Dr. Debasmita Baidya also appealed to citizens across the state to come forward and help save the child’s life.
Speaking to the media, Das said Manashree, daughter of Dhruba Chowdhury, has been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1, a rare disease that severely affects the muscles. He said treatment for the condition is unavailable in Tripura, while the required medicine is reportedly not available in India. According to the family, obtaining the treatment abroad could cost between ₹16 crore and ₹18 crore.
The minister said he learned about the child’s condition through social media and immediately contacted the family before providing financial assistance. He assured them that he would make efforts to mobilize further support.
Das informed that Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has already taken note of the case. He also said the Head of the Neurology Department at GBP Hospital has agreed to examine the child on Monday, after which a medical board will determine the next course of treatment.
Appealing to the public, the minister urged people to contribute according to their capacity, saying collective support can offer hope and help save Manashree’s life.
