Guwahati, Dec 7: Taking a significant step towards eradicating tuberculosis (TB) in Assam by 2025, Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya inaugurated the 100-day TB elimination campaign at the GMCH auditorium on Saturday. This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a TB-free India.
The 100-day campaign will target 17 high-priority districts in Assam and includes activities such as high-burden area mapping, identification of vulnerable populations in tea gardens, slums, and mining areas, extensive screening campaigns (Nikshay Shibirs), and promoting Jan Bhaghidari (public participation) to mobilize resources and raise awareness.
In his address, Governor Acharya emphasized the disproportionate impact of TB on vulnerable populations, particularly the poor. He called for community-driven efforts to ensure the success of the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), making it a model for other states.
Stating the state’s achievements in TB treatment, the Governor said that the patients who have been treated successfully with TB germs will act as TB Champions during this campaign. He also highlighted Assam’s innovative measures, including integration of TB services at Health and Wellness Centres under the Ayushman Bharat program, specialized initiatives like free TB treatment in tea garden areas and TB detection through boat clinics in char areas, early identification and management of TB among pregnant women.
Governor Acharya acknowledged the role of TB Champions—former patients who completed treatment—as key advocates in the campaign. He also commended the Ni-kshay Mitra initiative under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, which has mobilized support from over 8,200 contributors, including major corporations like OIL India, ONGC, GAIL India, and Power Grid Corporation of India. Their efforts have provided critical nutritional and medical aid to TB patients.
Expressing optimism, the Governor stated, “Together, we can and will end TB. Assam will set an example in this fight against tuberculosis.” The event was attended by prominent officials, including Dr. Ashok Babu, Commissioner and Secretary, Health & Family Welfare; Dr. Lakshmanan S, Mission Director, National Health Mission (NHM); Dr. Achyut Baishya, principal, GMCH and Dr. Umesh Phangcho, Director of Health Services.
