Sri Vijaya Puram, July 14: A media workshop on TB Mukt Abhiyan was organized at the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) on July 12, 2025, where the Director of Health Services, Dr. Suja Antony, and the State TB Officer, Dr. P. Lal, addressed the media. The workshop highlighted the Government of India’s directive to implement TB Mukt Abhiyan in mission mode across all districts, including the Islands.
Dr. Suja Antony emphasized the high-level administrative commitment to the campaign, with regular monitoring by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, Chief Secretary, Secretary Health, and all Deputy Commissioners.
The campaign aims at early detection of Tuberculosis (TB) through intensified screening at health institutions and community outreach. Vulnerable individuals—such as those with a history of TB, close contacts of TB patients, smokers, alcoholics, diabetics, malnourished persons, people over 60, and individuals living with HIV—are being screened proactively. Health workers are conducting house-to-house visits to identify at-risk individuals and encourage testing.
Dr. Lal elaborated on the dual focus of the Abhiyan: early detection and nutritional support. Under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana, TB patients receive ₹1,000 per month directly in their bank accounts. In addition, individuals and organizations have been encouraged to become Nikshay Mitras by donating monthly food baskets to patients. Currently, over 200 TB patients are benefiting from this initiative. ANIIDCO has pledged support for 50 patients for one year with a commitment of ₹6 lakh. Several Government officials, healthcare staff, NGOs, and religious and social organizations have also extended their support.
The campaign also emphasizes public awareness around TB prevention, early treatment, and stigma reduction, advocating for cough etiquette, proper ventilation, and TB preventive treatments. Officials stressed the importance of Janbhagidari (public participation) and a whole-of-government approach through Inter-Departmental collaboration.
The public have been urged to join the mission and support TB patients, contributing to the goal of making the Islands TB-free.