SRINAGAR: In a major achievement, three districts in Kashmir—Budgam, Anantnag, and Pulwama—have been declared TB-free under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP). Adding to the success, Srinagar and Kupwara districts received Gold certification under Sub-National Certification, while Jammu and Kashmir earned a Bronze medal for their strides in combating the disease, top health managers told an official meeting, according to DIPR.
The announcement came during the launch of a 100-day campaign to accelerate efforts against TB, inaugurated virtually by Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, Sakeena Itoo. The campaign aims to detect cases early, ensure timely treatment, and promote awareness about prevention and care.
Director of Health Services, Kashmir, Dr. Jehangir Bakshi, who led the pledge for TB elimination during the event, highlighted these achievements and underscored the region’s progress in reducing the burden of TB. He also acknowledged the challenges that remain, including stigma, late diagnosis, and treatment dropouts, which the 100-day campaign aims to address comprehensively.
The main event was held at the Kashmir Skill & Simulation Centre, RIHFW Dhobiwan, Tangmarg, Baramulla, and was attended by key dignitaries, including MLAs Dr. Mohammad Shafi, Farooq Ahmad Shah, and Dr. Sajjad Shafi, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
Speaking on the occasion, Sakeena Itoo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a TB-free Jammu and Kashmir, calling the campaign a “people’s movement” that requires participation from all sections of society. She emphasised that the campaign would focus on reaching underserved communities, enhancing healthcare infrastructure, and ensuring equitable access to TB care.
Joint Secretary Meera Srivastava commended the region’s achievements and urged collective efforts from healthcare providers, industry leaders, and the public to sustain the momentum. She stressed the need to eliminate stigma and ensure that TB patients receive comprehensive support, preventing the disease from disrupting families and livelihoods.
The campaign’s approach includes Active Case Findings targeting high-risk groups such as malnourished individuals, diabetics, smokers, and tribal populations. Mobile TB care units, flagged off during the event, will play a vital role in delivering healthcare services to remote areas and strengthening diagnostic and treatment facilities.
State Tuberculosis Officer Dr. Adhfar Yasien, in her address, described TB as not just a health challenge but also a significant social and economic burden, particularly affecting vulnerable populations. She noted that while the region has made notable progress in detection and treatment, the intensified 100-day campaign seeks to close the remaining gaps in care and prevention.
The launch concluded with the flagging off of two Ni-kshay Vahans for Srinagar and Baramulla, symbolising a renewed commitment to grassroots healthcare delivery. The 100-day campaign, officials said, is expected to set the stage for further milestones in Jammu and Kashmir’s fight against TB.
