Collective effort stressed as state observes TB Day
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, March 24 2023: The 42nd World Tuberculosis (TB) Day was observed in the state under theme "Yes We Can End TB" with the main function held at JNIMS auditorium under the joint aegis of National Health Mission, State TB Cell, DTC-Imphal West and Imphal East and National TB Elimination Program, on Friday.

Speaking at the observance function as chief guest, health minister Dr Sapam Ranjan affirmed that under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, India under has set the target of 2025 to eliminate TB much ahead of the global target of 2030.He also exuded confidence that the target of 2025 will be achieved considering the activities being taken up in the country.

Informing that screening for TB has been initiated by integrating TB with CM Health for All (CMHA), the minister stressed on the need for health officials and staff to diligently discharge their duties and also urged the patients to get treated and adhere to the standard treatment protocols.

Dr Ranjan also informed that the union government has launched Nikshay Mitra, which is a digital platform for TB patients aimed to improve the management of TB cases in the country by providing a centralised, webbased system for patients to access information, connect with healthcare providers, and track their progress.

Considering the importance of eliminating TB by 2025 and the need to observe the day, PM Narendra Modi is also taking part in the World TB Day observance held in Varanasi, he said, adding that representative from the state is also taking part in the function.

With the same spirit and unity displayed in tackling COVID-19, we need to unite and fight TB and contribute towards the goal of eliminating TB by 2025 from India, the minister exhorted.

On the issue of shortage of water, the minister contended that it is a man-made crisis as depletion of the forest cover is leading to scanty rainfall during the monsoons contrary to causing flash floods within few days of incessant rainfall.

In the absence of water, the human race will face outbreak of various diseases.

"Therefore, it is time that all citizens understand our duties and plant more tress," he said.

Presided over by health director Dr Kh Sasheekumar Mangang, the observance function was also attended by MACS project director H Roshita; Regional Office for HFW, ministry of HFW senior regional director Dr L Ashananda and JNIMS medical superintendent Dr Kh Lokeshwar as guests of honour.

Food baskets were also distributed to TB patients by NIKSHAY Mitra.

As part of the observance, a rally was flagged off from Imphal East CMO complex by CMO Dr L Indira.

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