Senapati marks World TB Day with renewed push for TB-free India
Source: The Sangai Express / DIO-IPR

Senapati, March 26 2026: The 45th World Tuberculosis (TB) Day was observed in Senapati district on Thursday at the Conference Hall of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Old District Hospital, Senapati, in alignment with the 100-day campaign of "Jan-Jan Ka Rakhe Dhyan TB-Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan".

The programme was organised by the District Tuberculosis Centre (DTC) under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) of the District Health Society, Senapati, under the theme "Yes, We Can End TB: Led by Bharat, Power by Janbhagidari" .

The programme was graced by Dr Sumpi Percy, Chief Medical Officer, Senapati, as chief guest, while Dr Helen Shimray, Medical Superintendent of District Hospital, Senapati, attended as guest of honour.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Sumpi Percy highlighted that World TB Day is observed annually to raise awareness and strengthen efforts to eliminate tuberculosis.

She stressed the importance of the government's "Jan-Jan" initiative, which focuses on collective responsibility at both individual and community levels to achieve a TB-free India.

She also elaborated on the dangers of Latent TB compared to active TB, the growing challenge of MultiDrug Resistant TB (MDR-TB), and the need for grassroots-level integration of TB screening.

In her address, Dr Helen Shimray underscored the importance of collaboration between the medical fraternity and civil society in combating TB.

She lauded ASHA worker and TB facilitators for the commendable work in screening and mapping vulnerable positions.

She also advocated for enhanced coordination among departments and suggested hosting future sessions at the District Hospital Conference Hall to improve participation and training of doctors.

Earlier, Dr L Muanching, District Tuberculosis Officer, delivered the welcome address, outlining the evolution of India's TB control programmes such as the NTP, RNTP and others to the current elimination strategies.

As part of the programme, TB Champions shared their testimonies on overcoming the disease, inspiring attendees.

Awards were also presented to various Primary Health Centres and Health and Wellness Centres for their outstanding performance in Nikshay portal entries.

The event was attended by District Level Officers, Medical Officers, representatives from Civil Society Organisations and frontline workers.

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