Telangana was awarded the Best National Performance Award in Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) testing for its exceptional efforts in Tuberculosis (TB) control during the 100-Day ‘TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ campaign. The recognition highlights the state’s commitment to eradicating tuberculosis and serves as a significant milestone towards achieving a TB-free India by 2025.
The campaign launched by the Telangana Health Department in collaboration with the Union Health Ministry aimed to screen and identify TB cases in nine economically disadvantaged districts: Adilabad, Khammam, Karimnagar, Mahabubnagar, Medak, Nagarkurnool, Peddapalli, Suryapet, and Wanaparthy. Over the course of the campaign, more than 4,600 new TB cases were identified, showcasing the need for ongoing community health initiatives.
The award was presented in New Delhi by Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda to key officials from the Telangana Health Department, including R.V. Karnan, managing director of the National Health Mission-Telangana, and A. Rajesham, Joint Director (TB). The recognition emphasizes the successful screening of the vulnerable population, achieving over 100% across all targeted districts.
To support the patients undergoing treatment, the Telangana government allocated ₹3.6 crore from various Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds for nutritional aid for TB patients. Additionally, six AI-enabled portable X-ray devices were introduced in the campaigning districts to improve diagnostic capabilities and reduce the time taken for detection.
Furthermore, ₹5 crore was specifically allocated for the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana, a direct benefit transfer program to aid in providing nutritional support to TB patients, enhancing their prospects for recovery.
Despite this commendable achievement, challenges in TB control persist. The recognition from the National Award is a crucial endorsement of the effective strategies implemented during the 100-Day campaign; however, the need for continued vigilance, public awareness, and patient support cannot be overstated. Effective treatment, awareness, and mobilizing community resources remain critical components for sustained success against TB.
-Raja Aditya
