Holistic support, vigilance key to TB eradication: DC Budgam

Budgam, Oct 10: A District TB Forum meeting was held Friday under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat, to review and strengthen ongoing efforts under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan in the district.
The meeting was attended by CMO Budgam, STO Kashmir, DTO Budgam, other concerned officials as well as representatives of non-governmental organizations, TB Champions, Nikshay Mitras, and all staff associated with the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP).
The DC took comprehensive review of TB-related activities across the district.
The Chair was apprised about the progress achieved under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, identified existing gaps in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up, and deliberated on strategies to enhance service delivery.
The DC Emphasised on improving case detection, treatment adherence, and patient support mechanisms, especially for MDR-TB patients.
He assured full administrative support for strengthening TB control measures in the district. He highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to TB management, including nutritional support, vocational rehabilitation, and social welfare for patients undergoing long-term treatment.
He commended the efforts of Nikshay Mitras for their active role in providing nutritional assistance and counselling to TB patients, acknowledging their contribution to patient retention and treatment success.
The DC stressed the need for accurate and timely reporting of TB-related data under the NTEP, underlining its critical role in monitoring progress and formulating effective interventions.
He instructed all officers to take necessary corrective measures to address gaps in outreach, treatment monitoring, and community awareness.
The meeting further discussed measures to enhance treatment success rates, increase awareness about TB prevention, and ensure that vulnerable patients receive comprehensive support, including regular health check-ups, nutritional supplements, and access to government welfare schemes.
The DC maintained that the District administration is committed towards eradicating tuberculosis from Budgam by strengthening multi-sectoral coordination, engaging community stakeholders, and leveraging technology for effective monitoring.
He also highlighted that sustained administrative attention, combined with active community participation, is key to building a TB-free Budgam.
He directed all officers and stakeholders to work collectively towards achieving the objectives of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, ensuring that no patient is left untreated or unsupported across District.