Srinagar:On December 7th, 2024, State launch of 100-day campaign under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) was conducted at the Kashmir Skill & Simulation Centre, RIHFW Dhobiwan, Tangmarg, Baramulla. The campaign was organised by Health and Medical Education Department, Govt. of UT of J&K.
This campaign holds great importance as Tuberculosis (TB) is not only a health issue but also a major social and economic burden, particularly affecting the most vulnerable segments of our society. India accounts for approximately 27% of the world’s TB cases, emphasizing the urgency of this ongoing fight. TB continues to claim lives, disrupt families, and reduce the productivity of entire communities.
The event was launched virtually by Ms. Sakeena Masood Itoo, Hon’ble Minister of Health & Medical Education, School Education, Higher Education and Department of Social Welfare Govt. of Jammu & Kashmir UT. It was attended by several prominent figures and public representatives including Dr. Shafi Ahmad Wani, MLA Beerwah, Mr. Peerzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, MLA Gulmarg, Dr. Sajjad Shafi, MLA Uri, Ms. Meera Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, Dr. Jehangir Bakshi, Director, Health Services, Kashmir and Mr. Qammar Sajad, ADDC Baramulla. Health functionaries from various districts of the Kashmir Division, officers and officials from Directorate of Health Services Kashmir, Directorate NHM J&K, STO office Kashmir, DTO office Srinagar and State TB Demonstration Centre Srinagar were also present at the launch.
During this 100-day intensified campaign, health teams will focus on conducting Active Case Findings by visiting high-risk and vulnerable populations, including malnourished individuals, diabetics, smokers, cancer patients, tribal communities, and other at-risk groups. The goal is to detect TB cases early, raise awareness about TB symptoms, prevention, and treatment, and provide continuous medical and psychological support to ensure successful recovery. Additionally, community leaders, NGOs, corporate organisations, counsellors, and health workers will be engaged to serve as ambassadors for change.
During the event, the Members of the Legislative Assembly, including Dr. Shafi Ahmad Wani,, Mr. Peerzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, and Dr. Sajjad Shafi, commended the efforts of the health staff for their invaluable contributions and achievements. They reiterated their full support for the campaign, highlighting that the objective of this 100-day campaign is to accelerate efforts in eliminating TB, reaching every corner of the community, spreading awareness about the disease, and ensuring access to free and high-quality TB care.
It is important to note that the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) in Kashmir has made remarkable progress. Three districts in the region—Budgam, Anantnag, and Pulwama—have been declared TB-free. Additionally, two districts, Srinagar and Kupwara, have received Gold certification under the Sub-National Certification and the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir has received a Bronze medal in the same category. Over 15 million TB cases have been successfully treated since the start of the program, and significant improvements in detection and recovery rates have been achieved due to better diagnostic and treatment tools. Despite these advancements, challenges such as stigma, late diagnosis, and treatment dropouts remain, and the 100-day campaign aims to directly address these issues through the involvement of all stakeholders.
Ms. Meera Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, concluded the event by urging healthcare providers, public representatives, corporate organisations, counsellors, media professionals, and citizens to collaborate in this effort. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against TB, striving for a TB-free India. On the sidelines of the event she also interacted with CMOs and BMOs of various districts regarding implementation of various National Programs including routine Immunisation.
During the event Dr. Jehangir Bakshi, Director of Health Services, Kashmir, administered the TB Pledge to the dignitaries and participants, demonstrating a strong commitment to the elimination of Tuberculosis in J&K. After concluding the launch ceremony the dignitaries along with CMO Srinagar and Baramulla flagged of two Ni-kshayVahans for district Srinagar and Baramulla.
On the directions of Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Administrative Secretary Health & Medical Education Department Govt. of J&K, Mr Nazim Zai Khan, MD NHM J&K and Dr Jehangir Bakshi, Director Health Services Kashmir provided overall directions & support to the organising teams for successful conduct of the launch event.
