In a significant move to eliminate tuberculosis (TB), Jammu and Kashmir launched a 100-day campaign under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP). The initiative was virtually inaugurated by the Hon’ble Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, Sakeena Masood (Itoo), from the Kashmir Skill and Simulation Centre at RIHFW Dhobiwan, Tangmarg in Baramulla district.

Speaking on the occasion, the health minister emphasized the pressing need to address TB as a persistent public health challenge. “This campaign is a testament to our commitment to achieving a TB-free J&K. With innovation, determination, and collective action, we can overcome this disease,” she said. The campaign aims to strengthen TB detection, ensure timely treatment, and promote awareness of preventive measures across communities.

Highlighting the collaborative nature of the initiative, the minister urged the participation of healthcare workers, stakeholders, and citizens alike. “This is not just a government initiative but a people’s movement to ensure no one is left behind in the fight against TB,” she added.

Unified Efforts Across J&K

The event witnessed enthusiastic support from legislators, including MLA Beerwah Muhammad Shafi, MLA Gulmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah, and MLA Uri Sajjad Shafi, who commended healthcare workers for their dedication. They pledged their unwavering support to the campaign, reinforcing its objectives to provide free, high-quality TB care to all segments of the population.

Meera Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, called on healthcare providers, corporate organizations, media professionals, and the general public to collaborate in the drive. “This is not just a health initiative but a mission to create stronger and healthier communities, where no child, student, or worker is adversely impacted by TB,” she remarked.

Progress and Challenges

Director of Health Services, Kashmir, Dr. Jehangir Bakshi, lauded the progress of the NTEP in the region and emphasized the need for continued focus on awareness and community engagement. He led the participants in taking the TB pledge, symbolizing collective resolve to eradicate the disease.

State Tuberculosis Officer, Kashmir, Dr. Adhfar Yasien, highlighted that while substantial progress has been made under the NTEP, with over 15 million TB cases treated nationwide, challenges such as stigma, late diagnoses, and treatment dropouts remain. She stressed the campaign’s role in addressing these hurdles, especially in reaching vulnerable populations like malnourished individuals, diabetics, smokers, cancer patients, and tribal communities.

District-Level Achievements

Three districts in Kashmir—Budgam, Anantnag, and Pulwama—have already been declared TB-free, while Srinagar and Kupwara have achieved gold certification under the Sub-National Certification. J&K has also been recognized with a bronze medal for its efforts under the same program.

Mobilizing Resources for Awareness and Treatment

As part of the campaign, health teams will conduct active case findings, focusing on high-risk groups, and provide medical and psychological support to ensure successful treatment outcomes. The involvement of NGOs, corporate organizations, community leaders, and counselors will further bolster the campaign’s reach and impact.

During the launch event, two TB eradication vans were flagged off to Srinagar and Baramulla districts, symbolizing the government’s commitment to accessible healthcare.

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A Step Toward a TB-Free Future

The 100-day campaign reflects Jammu and Kashmir’s vision of a TB-free society. With the combined efforts of the government, healthcare workers, and the community, the region is poised to make significant strides toward eliminating this preventable yet devastating disease.

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