Rajasthan governor calls for effective implementation of anti-TB programme

Jaipur, Jul 13 (PTI) Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde on Monday directed officials to ensure panchayat-level monitoring for effective implementation of the TB elimination programme, stressing the need to focus on patients "in practice, not just on paper". Chairing a high-level review meeting at Lok Bhavan on the progress of the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme, the governor called for intensified efforts to make Rajasthan TB-free through greater public participation, according to an official statement. "Efforts should not remain confined to data. Each patient must be cared for in real terms, and TB must be completely eliminated," Bagde said. He emphasised door-to-door surveys to identify patients and remove stigma associated with the disease. "People from every section of society should be involved, and fear and discrimination related to TB must be eliminated," he said, adding that gram sevaks should be made accountable for achieving TB-free villages. Bagde also underlined the importance of ensuring proper treatment and post-treatment nutrition support for patients. Referring to the need for strong intent, he said efforts must be made with full commitment to eradicate the disease. Medical and Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar said coordinated efforts across departments are underway to achieve the goal of a TB-free Rajasthan by 2030. "Continuous and effective efforts are being made with participation of all departments. Around 90 per cent of the targets under the TB-free campaign have been achieved," he said. Khimsar said surveys have been conducted in over 11,000 high-risk villages, with special camps organised in more than 9,700 villages as part of the campaign. He added that Rajasthan has conducted the highest number of X-ray screenings in the country and about 95 per cent of gram panchayats have been declared TB-free. Chief Secretary V Srinivas said India's efforts in fighting TB are emerging as a role model globally and stressed that every patient must receive effective treatment. Additional Chief Secretary Kunji Lal Meena highlighted efforts in tribal areas, while Principal Secretary (Medical and Health) Gayatri Rathore said nutrition assistance under the TB programme has been increased from Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 by the Centre. Secretary, Panchayati Raj and National Health Mission Director Jogaram said TB-free ward campaigns will be launched in urban areas, along with screening camps and awareness programmes in schools and higher education institutions. Information and Public Relations Commissioner Rakesh Kumar Sharma said sustained awareness campaigns are being carried out through print, electronic and social media to support the TB-free India initiative. PTI AG -- KSI KSI