ITANAGAR, Mar 24: Governor Lt Gen (Retd) K T Parnaik said that helmed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has emerged as a global leader in the fight against TB through the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
Participating in the World Tuberculosis Day programme held at the Dorjee Khandu State Convention Centre here today, Parnaik said with improved diagnostics, free treatment, nutritional support, and strong community participation, the country has set an inspiring goal to eliminate TB ahead of the global deadline.
Initiating more efforts towards TB Mukt Bharat, the Governor launched the 100 Days focused and intensified TB Mukt Bharat campaign. He also flagged off the Ni-kshay Vashan.
As an encouragement and motivation, the Governor felicitated Leporiang Gram Panchayat under Sagalee Block, Gumto Gram Panchayat under Doimukh Block and Lora Belo Gram Panchayat under Kimin Block of Papum Pare district, which were awarded the TB Mukt Panchayat Gold Statue for their contribution towards TB eradication. He also conferred Best District Tuberculosis Center Award to District TB Centre, Namsai district.
The Governor, who himself received Ni-kshay Mitra certificates, presented certificates to other Ni-kshay Mitras on the occasion. He also administered the TB Pledge to all the participants.
The Governor said that to eradicate Tuberculosis, the whole of State approach through ‘Jan Bhagidari’ is vital as government efforts alone cannot win the battle. He said that community leaders, Gaon Burahs, and youth icons must lead in mission mode from the front and inspire society to act together.
The Governor, a Nikshay Mitra himself, appealed to the people to support the TB eradication Mission by becoming NIkshay Mitra, while highlighting that the support to TB patients with nutritional, emotional, and social assistance strengthens recovery and reinforces the fight against TB.
Stating that the eradication of tuberculosis is not merely a public health goal but a moral responsibility, the Governor suggested concrete actions to build a TB-free society. He emphasized strengthening early detection and diagnosis of Tuberculosis by expanding diagnostic centres, using modern technologies, and encouraging people to get tested. He also stressed the need to ensure uninterrupted and patient-friendly treatment by making medicines readily available, accessible, and properly monitored.
Further, the Governor, suggesting use of community radio called for eliminating stigma through sustained awareness and education by actively involving schools, community leaders, the media, and healthcare institutions. He highlighted the importance of improving nutrition and living conditions through stronger nutrition support programmes, better sanitation, reduced overcrowding, and the promotion of healthier lifestyles.
He also underscored the need to harness innovation and strengthen community participation in the fight against TB.
The Governor stressed on cleanliness, rectifying lifestyle by avoiding too much red meat and use of tobacco and cleanliness drives in order to eradicate TB from the State.
Health & Family Welfare Minister Biyuram Wahge called for cooperation and active participation of every member of the society.
Commissioner Health & Family Welfare Pawan Kumar Sain, Secretary Vivek HP, and Mission Director National Health Mission (NHM) Marge Sora, highlighted the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme, Tuberculosis scenario, use of AI and challenges in the State and in the country.
The one of the TB Champions also shared her experience and appealed to the TB patients to complete their course religiously.
As part of the programme, Zinny Koyu, HWO, Allubari Sub Centre, Namsai and Nada Bunyi, HWO, Mannow Sub Centre, Namsai received the Best Health and Wellness Officer Award.
Along with health officials, Itanagar Municipal Corporation Mayor Smt Likha Nari Tadar, nursing students and staff of North East Institute of Nursing & Health Science, Lekhi, Zion Nursing College, Nirjuli, Arunachal Pradesh State Nursing College, Naharlagun and Ramakrishna Mission Nursing College, Itanagar participated in the celebration. (PRO to Governor)