Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s Health and Family Welfare Minister, Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, today inaugurated the “100-Day Intensified TB Campaign,” marking a decisive step in the State’s fight against tuberculosis (TB). The initiative, which will target 19 districts, is part of a broader effort to eradicate TB by 2025, aligning with India’s national goal.
During the launch event, Dr. Mahaling reaffirmed the commitment of the Central and State governments to reducing TB incidence and mortality. Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a “TB Mukt Bharat,” he stated that the campaign aims to reduce TB incidence by 80%, cut mortality rates by 90% from 2015 levels, and eliminate financial hardships for affected families. He called on all stakeholders to join hands in making both “TB Mukt Odisha” and “TB Mukt Bharat” a reality.
The campaign features the deployment of Ni-kshay Vahan, a fleet of vehicles designed to improve access to diagnostic, screening, and treatment services in remote areas. The Ni-kshay Mitra program was also highlighted as a key component, offering nutritional support to TB patients and their families while enhancing care for high-risk individuals.
Dr. Mahaling emphasized that the 100-day initiative will focus on identifying TB cases more effectively, reducing delays in diagnosis, and improving treatment outcomes, particularly in underserved and high-risk communities. Advocacy and information, education, and communication (IEC) materials were also unveiled to raise awareness about TB prevention and treatment.
The campaign will cover 19 districts, including Balangir, Bargarh, Bhadrak, Cuttack, Ganjam, Kandhamal, Mayurbhanj, Puri, and Sundargarh. These areas have been identified based on higher TB prevalence and underserved populations.
Financial and social support under the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana remains a cornerstone of the campaign, with TB patients receiving ₹1,000 per month to aid in their recovery. Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) are being incentivized with ₹100 per referral and ₹500 for each confirmed case, further bolstering the program’s reach and impact.
During the event, TB Champions Sri Arjun Charan Nath and Smt. Sasmita Patra were recognized for their exemplary contributions to community engagement in TB elimination. Dr. Bijay Kumar Mohapatra, Director of Health Services, welcomed dignitaries, while NHM Mission Director Dr. Brundha D highlighted the role of protein-rich diets in the recovery of TB patients. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, Director of Public Health.
The campaign is a part of the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP), which aims to tackle the challenges of TB notification and mortality through enhanced diagnostics and expanded financial support. Odisha’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to achieving the nationwide goal of ending TB, ensuring better health outcomes for its citizens.
