Shimla to launch TB awareness campaign in gram sabhas: DC
In a significant step towards eradicating tuberculosis (TB) in the district, Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap announced a special TB awareness campaign to be conducted in all gram sabhas. The initiative aims to educate people about TB prevention, treatment, and the importance of early diagnosis, ensuring that no patient suffers due to a lack of awareness or hesitation in seeking medical help.
During a meeting of the District Tuberculosis Eradication Committee, Kashyap discussed various health initiatives, including the 100-day TB campaign, TB-free panchayats, World TB Day 2025, handheld X-rays, and the Nikshay Mitra programme. He emphasised that the upcoming gram sabha sessions would dedicate the first 30 minutes to providing crucial information about healthcare schemes and the dangers of drug addiction, urging communities to take an active role in supporting those affected.
“Many people hesitate to seek medical help due to social stigma, especially when it comes to diseases like TB. Community support is crucial in ensuring early treatment and recovery. A healthier community leads to a stronger society,” Kashyap remarked.
Under the TB-Free Gram Panchayat 2024 initiative, the district has made significant progress. A total of 135 panchayats were evaluated based on various health parameters. Out of these, 47 panchayats were awarded silver medals, while 88 received bronze medals, marking an improvement in the district’s fight against TB. The number of TB-free panchayats has also increased, rising from 133 in 2023 to 135 in 2024.
As part of the 100-day TB campaign, 98,938 people were screened, surpassing the initial target of 90,761 by 109 per cent. Additionally, 24,737 people underwent X-ray tests, leading to the identification of 210 new TB patients. During this period, 52 nutrition kits were distributed to support TB patients.
Looking ahead, World TB Day will be observed on March 24 at the historic Gaiety Theatre in Shimla. The event will feature a quiz competition, slogan writing, reel-making contests, and a short play competition, with 200 schoolchildren participating. Kashyap also revealed that from January to December 2024, the district identified 2,356 TB patients, while 1,891 people benefited from the Nikshay Poshan Yojana, a scheme aimed at providing nutritional support to TB patients.
With the collective efforts of the administration, healthcare workers, and local communities, the district is making steady progress towards a TB-free future.
