Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug. 11: A State-Level Awareness Event under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan was organized today at the Tagore Government College of Education, Sri Vijaya Puram, aimed at sensitizing the of the youth and stakeholders on the vision of a Tuberculosis-free India.
The event was graced by Ms. Richa, Secretary (Health), as the chief guest. Other dignitaries in attendance included the Director of Health Services, Director, ANIIMS, Deputy Director (Health), Joint Secretary (NTEP), Deputy Director (AYUSH), all Programme Officers from the Directorate of Health Services, Scientists from ICMR, TB Champions, Nikshay Mitras. The students of the Tagore Government College of Education, Sri Vijaya Puram also attended the event.
In her address, the Secretary (Health) underscored the importance of collective action, community participation, and youth involvement in the fight against tuberculosis. She urged all attendees to be ambassadors of TB awareness, contributing actively towards the national goal of TB elimination.
Proceedings commenced with the Ceremonial Lighting of the Lamp, symbolising the commitment to eradicate TB, followed by a welcome address and an overview of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan by Dr. P. Lal, Joint Secretary, NTEP.
A special segment was dedicated to the Felicitations of Nikshay Mitras by the chief guest and other programme officers, where Certificates and Mementos were presented in recognition of their valuable contributions to TB patient support and community awareness.
The programme featured a Skit by ANIIMS Students, creatively depicting symptoms of TB, Early Detection, Fighting Stigma and Treatment Adherence. A TB Champion shared a heartfelt personal journey of overcoming the disease, inspiring the audience with resilience and hope.
The gathering then took the TB Free India Pledge, reaffirming commitment to the nationwide campaign against tuberculosis.
The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Dr. Keerthivasan, Microbiologist, IRL, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, participants, and organisers for their support in making the event a success.
The awareness programme not only reinforced the objectives of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan but also brought together the health professionals, community leaders, and youth advocates to work towards a TB-free Andaman & Nicobar Islands.