Media Team Assesses Grassroots Healthcare Services
A National Media Team from Delhi, under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), visited the Laitkor Sub-Center Health and Wellness Center to evaluate healthcare services and track TB detection progress under the 100-day TB elimination campaign.
State’s Commitment to TB Elimination
Ramkumar S., Mission Director of the National Health Mission (NHM) Meghalaya, provided an overview of the state’s TB elimination efforts. He highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has prioritized TB eradication, focusing on improved nutrition and advanced diagnostics.
The introduction of TrueNAT machines across Meghalaya has significantly boosted early TB detection and increased testing capacity. Additionally, initiatives like PM Nikshay Mitras have provided essential support to TB patients. The state government has also introduced comprehensive care kits for TB patients and their families, ensuring better recovery with a strong emphasis on nutrition.
To further aid survivors, the government has launched skill development programs that help them reintegrate into society post-recovery. Thanks to these efforts, TB occurrences have declined, with 10% of villages now declared TB-free.
Innovative Diagnostic Tools Enhance TB Detection
The delegation observed portable diagnostic tools, including handheld sputum transformation devices and X-ray machines. Dr. B. Shanpru, District TB Officer (DTO), and Dr. R. Kharmih, Medical Officer for TB Control (MOTC), shared insights into the ongoing healthcare challenges and the long-term impact of the 100-day free TB campaign. They emphasized that efforts continue beyond the 100-day period to ensure broader coverage and sustained intervention.
Notably, the Laitkor Sub-Center has been recognized as a Mercury-Free Center, reinforcing its commitment to safer healthcare practices.
Expanding TB Services to Remote Villages
Meban Kharkongor, State Coordinator for HLL Hindustan Lifecare Limited-Handheld X-Ray, explained how portable diagnostic devices are transported to remote villages. These efforts have significantly improved TB detection and treatment accessibility in areas such as Bijasik Warinandal (East Garo Hills), Bone Megapre (Williamnagar), Jaintia Hills, East Khasi Hills, Mawkriah, and Nongspung B (Ri Bhoi).
Nutritional Support and TB Awareness
The delegation also visited Reid Provincial Chest Hospital, Shillong, where they observed the distribution of nutritional food support from the state government. This initiative aims to enhance TB patients’ recovery by ensuring they receive proper nutrition.
As reported by pib.gov.in, the team interacted with TB Champions Requeststar Kurbah and Ridalin Shullai, who shared their personal experiences with the disease, including stigma, challenges, and resilience. They also met with designated TB social influencers to understand their role in raising community awareness.
100-Day TB Elimination Campaign: A Step Towards a TB-Free India
The 100-day TB elimination campaign is a vital initiative under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP), aligned with the National Health Mission (NHM). It supports the National Strategic Plan (NSP) for TB elimination (2017–2025) by focusing on:
- Lowering TB incidence
- Strengthening diagnostic and treatment services
- Addressing the socio-economic impact of TB
Covering 347 districts across 33 states and union territories, the campaign prioritizes high-risk populations, minimizes diagnostic delays, and improves treatment outcomes. These concerted efforts play a crucial role in India’s mission to eradicate TB and achieve a TB-free nation.