BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 7th January 2026 : What began as a shadow of despair moments after birth has turned into a story of hope and survival. Thanks to the relentless efforts of doctors and the government’s Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) under the National Health Mission, infant Arup has been given a new lease of life after battling a critical congenital heart condition.
Arup was born on November 8, 2025, at Gomati District Hospital. Within minutes, he developed severe breathing distress and was rushed to Agartala Government Medical College and GB Hospital. Tests revealed a congenital heart defect. With limited financial means, his parents, Subhash Babu and Shivani Devi, brought him home, only to watch his condition worsen day by day.
When news of the child’s deteriorating health reached Udaipur Tripurasundari Sub-Divisional Hospital, an RBSK team led by Dr. Nandan Debnath and pharmacist Rajesh Bhowmik immediately visited the family. They assured the parents that Arup’s treatment would be provided free of cost under the RBSK scheme. Local MLA Abhishek Debroy also extended personal support, ensuring the referral process was completed swiftly.
By mid-December, Arup was flown to Apollo Children’s Hospital, Chennai, with government support covering air travel for the child and two attendants. His treatment began on December 20, and a life-saving surgery was successfully performed on December 26. After weeks of uncertainty, Arup was discharged on January 5, 2026, fully recovered.
Dr. Debnath expressed his satisfaction, saying: “Arup is now completely healthy. His painful breathing difficulties are gone. We are proud to have saved an innocent life.”
For Arup’s family, the moment was overwhelming. Tears of joy replaced days of despair as they embraced their child in good health. Father Subhash Babu conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the National Health Mission, the RBSK team, MLA Abhishek Debroy, and both the state and central governments for their timely intervention.
