Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar. 24: The State-level launch of the 100-day campaign under TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and observance of World TB Day 2026 was held today in the Auditorium of TGCE. Dr. Sachin Shinde, IAS, Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Health), graced the occasion as the chief guest. The programme was also attended by Ms. Vandana Rao, IAS, Secretary (Health), along with the Director of Health Services (DHS), Director of ANIIMS, representatives from RMRC, and doctors from the Health Department and ANIIMS.
The formal launch of the campaign was conducted by the chief guest. In his address, Dr. Shinde highlighted significant advancements in diagnostics and treatment of Tuberculosis, emphasizing that these developments have made the goal of TB elimination increasingly achievable. He commended the efforts of the Health Department in achieving targets under TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan 2025 and stressed the need for sustained efforts to eliminate TB. He also appreciated the contributions of Nikshay Mitras for providing nutritional support to TB patients, thereby improving treatment outcomes. Further, he underscored the importance of community participation and a whole-of-government approach in achieving TB elimination.
Earlier, State TB Officer Dr. P. Lal welcomed the gathering and presented the progress achieved under TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. As part of the programme, a skit on Tuberculosis was performed by the Police Entertainment Team, spreading awareness in an engaging manner.
During the event, the Annual TB Report was released. The dignitaries felicitated Nikshay Mitras and distributed prizes to winners of competitions organized as part of World TB Day.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Keerthivasan, Microbiologist, IRL.
