Ration kits distributed to TB patients in Phagwara

Tuberculosis (TB) is a treatable disease, provided patients take their medication on time and complete the prescribed treatment. This was emphasised by Dr Meenakshi Sood, District TB Officer, Kapurthala, during a ration distribution event held under the Nikshay Poshaan Yojana (National Tuberculosis Elimination) programme at Phagwara Civil Hospital today.

The event was organised as part of the TB-Free India campaign under the guidance of Kapurthala Civil Surgeon Dr Richa Bhatia. During the programme, ration kits were distributed to the TB Patients.

Dr Meenakshi Sood highlighted that TB treatment weakens the patient’s immunity, and along with medication, proper nutrition was crucial for recovery. But, many patients face financial hardships, making it difficult to maintain a nutritious diet.

Phagwara Senior Medical Officer Dr Lehmber Ram also appealed to the community to support TB patients.

Dr Sood said to address this issue, the Nikshay Mitra initiative allows individuals and organisations to adopt TB patients and provide them with ration and other assistance to ensure both medical treatment and nutritional support to help them recover faster. As part of the initiative, ration kits were distributed to 26 TB patients at the event. Dr Sood urged the public to become ‘Nikshay Mitras’ and support TB patients by providing resources such as food and other necessities. She encouraged anyone interested in helping to contact the TB Department for more information.

Dr Rajesh Chander, Dr Ravi Kumar, Dr Sanjeev Lochan, Dr Darshan Badhan and other TB health officials were present on the occasion.