Chandigarh Gears Up for Tuberculosis Elimination Program with Comprehensive Strategy

Chandigarh, August 28

A comprehensive strategy to eliminate Tuberculosis (TB) was discussed during a meeting with key stakeholders from the health sector. The focus was on high-risk areas and the meeting was the second of its kind, involving participants from various health-related departments and organizations. Notably, representatives from the Chandigarh State AIDS Control Society, NVHCP, AYUSH, Malaria, ICDS, Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram, as well as administration departments like IMA, Social Welfare, Drug Controllers, Education, Higher Education, Medical Colleges, and Food Safety, actively participated.

Various NGOs, including Rotary and its branches, Tera hi Tera, Chandigarh Welfare Trust, and Lions Club Chandigarh, also contributed insights and commitment towards making Chandigarh TB-free. The Adviser to the Administrator emphasized a collective effort, urging all present to join hands in the mission to eradicate TB from the region.

Sh. Dharam Pal, addressing the stakeholders, proposed the adoption of specific areas in Chandigarh for TB screening, awareness campaigns, and nutritional support. A holistic approach was underscored, covering the identification, treatment, and management of TB patients and their families. A unique initiative aims to screen all employees of food outlets in Chandigarh for TB to ensure early identification and containment. The use of a mobile diagnostic van is being considered, following a thorough mapping of establishments.

The meeting saw crucial decisions being made that will significantly contribute to achieving the goal of TB elimination in Chandigarh. The comprehensive plan aims to provide future generations with a TB-free environment. Sh. Dharam Pal assured support at all levels, encompassing diagnostics, community engagement, treatment services, and social support for TB patients and their families. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with medical and pediatric associations, NGOs, and other health and administrative departments to ensure the program’s success.

The meeting witnessed the presence of notable medical professionals, including Dr. Suman Singh, MD-NHM cum DHS, Chandigarh, Dr. Jasbinder Kaur, Director Principal GMCH-32, Chandigarh, Dr. V.K. Nagpal, Medical Superintendent-GMSH-16, Dr. Rajesh Kumar, State TB Officer, and Dr. Pooja Kapoor, WHO Consultant.

Under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, all stakeholders pledged their support to assist TB patients and their families, collectively working towards achieving the target of TB elimination by 2024. The efforts reflect a collaborative spirit in the fight against TB and in safeguarding the health of the community.