TB Free Telangana: Governor calls for Collective Action

Metro India News | Hyderabad

Telangana Governor and President of the Tuberculosis Association of Telangana, Shiv Pratap Shukla, on Friday stressed the importance of coordinated efforts by government agencies, healthcare workers, voluntary organisations, corporates and the public to achieve the goal of a TB free Telangana and contribute to the national vision of a TB free India.

Reviewing the implementation of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan at Lok Bhavan, the Governor assessed the progress made under the campaign and examined measures being taken to eliminate tuberculosis across the State. He also reviewed the activities of the Tuberculosis Association of Telangana and its role in supporting government initiatives.

Health Secretary Christina Z. Chongthu and Commissioner of Health and Family Welfare Dr. Sangeetha Satyanarayana presented a detailed report on the programme's implementation. Officials highlighted Telangana's strong TB control infrastructure, which includes 171 TB Units, 435 TB Detection Centres, 191 Rapid Molecular Testing facilities and 52 portable handheld X ray devices.

During the recent 100 day campaign, over 3.87 lakh vulnerable individuals were screened, more than 1.68 lakh X ray examinations were conducted and 7,663 new TB patients were identified and linked to treatment.

Addressing the media after the review meeting, Shukla said nearly 28,000 active TB patients are currently undergoing treatment in Telangana. While commending the State government's commitment to TB elimination, he pointed out challenges in tribal and remote areas, including treatment dropouts, reluctance to undergo diagnostic tests and nutritional deficiencies.

The Governor said district level review meetings would soon be held to address local issues and ensure effective implementation of the programme. He emphasized that every TB patient must complete the prescribed six month treatment course to achieve full recovery.

Shukla warned that lapses in diagnosis or treatment adherence could increase transmission risks and called for continuous monitoring of patients. He also advocated greater involvement of NGOs in awareness campaigns, outreach activities and nutritional support, particularly in rural and tribal regions.

Expressing confidence in Telangana's progress, the Governor said collective action and public participation would be key to achieving the shared goal of a TB free Telangana and TB free India.