Sri Vijaya Puram, July 17: The Government of India is implementing the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan as part of its sustained efforts to achieve the goal of Tuberculosis (TB) elimination from the country. One of the core components of the Abhiyaan is enhanced community engagement and Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation) in its true spirit, for which sensitization and active involvement of public representatives is of utmost importance.
In this regard, a sensitization session on the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan for all the Pradhans of the South Andaman District was held today in the Conference Hall of the Department of Rural Development. The Pradhans of South Andaman District and officials of the Department of Rural Development participated in person, while the Pradhans from North & Middle Andaman and Nicobar Districts joined the session virtually.
During the session, Dr. P Lal, Joint Secretary, NTEP, A&N Islands, briefed the participants on India’s significant progress in TB reduction as per the Global TB Report 2024, the TB epidemiological status in the A&N Islands, presumptive TB examination procedures, district-wise TB notification and Drug-Resistant TB (DR-TB) percentage for 2024, block-wise analysis of ongoing TB patient treatments, the process flow for screening of presumptive TB cases, details of TB patients currently on treatment and the support extended through the Nikshay Mitras initiative, the TB Notification Rate for all three districts (Jan to May 2025), and the status of declared TB Mukt Panchayats for 2023 & 2024.
To further intensify TB awareness and community participation, it was requested to the Pradhans that the following IEC (Information, Education & Communication) activities may be carried out in all Panchayats:
•Regular organization of Gram Sabha meetings and community dialogues to spread awareness on TB symptoms, prevention, free diagnostic services, and treatment availability.
•Wall paintings and display of TB awareness hoardings at prominent public places.
•Distribution of IEC leaflets and brochures in local languages to households through ASHAs and Anganwadi Workers.
•Street plays (Nukkad Nataks) and cultural programmes highlighting TB symptoms and the importance of completing treatment.
•Involvement of Nikshay Mitras, community volunteers, and local influencers for identification and motivation of presumptive TB cases for timely screening.
At the conclusion of the session, all Pradhans were requested to ensure their active involvement in implementing the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan in their respective Panchayats and to extend their full cooperation for achieving the target of a TB-Free Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The Health Department has appealed to all residents to actively participate in the fight against TB by supporting local health workers, spreading awareness, and encouraging anyone with TB symptoms to seek timely medical advice and treatment.