Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Sep 27: In a decisive step towards eliminating the stigma around Tuberculosis (TB), the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir, in collaboration with the College of Education, has launched a joint awareness and outreach program to educate communities about the curability of TB and the importance of early detection and treatment.
“TB is a very curable disease,” said the Director of Health Services, Kashmir, Dr Jehangir Bakshi said during the official launch of the initiative. “But the social stigma attached to it often delays diagnosis and treatment. To remove that stigma, we have to involve the community — and there is no one better than a teacher to lead that effort.”
This collaborative program aims to harness the influence of educators in shaping public perception. By empowering teachers with accurate knowledge about TB, the campaign hopes to create a ripple effect that reaches students, families, and wider communities.
Tuberculosis, a bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs, is both preventable and treatable. With proper medication and adherence to treatment regimens, most TB patients recover fully. However, misconceptions and fear around the disease still persist, often leading to social ostracization of patients and reluctance to seek timely medical help.
According to health experts, stigma is one of the biggest barriers in India’s TB elimination efforts. People avoid getting tested or even discussing symptoms due to fear of being labelled, which can lead to late-stage diagnosis and further spread of the infection
The Director highlighted the unique role of educators in shaping social attitudes. “Teachers are trusted figures in every household. Their voice carries weight not just in classrooms but in the hearts of communities. By involving them, we are building a bridge between medical knowledge and public understanding.”
As part of the program, teacher training workshops, school-based awareness sessions, and community outreach events are being organized. These sessions will include interactive modules on TB symptoms, transmission, treatment, and the importance of empathy and support for patients.
The Health Department believes that eliminating TB is not just a medical challenge, but a social one. “This is not just about pills and diagnostics; it’s about people,” the Director said. “We need a community-driven approach where no one is afraid to seek help. That begins with changing mindsets — and education is our most powerful tool.”
This initiative comes as part of India’s larger commitment to eliminate TB by 2025, ahead of the global target.
