Diagnostic Tools to Be Expanded Across JK for TB Testing: LG Sinha

SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday chaired a high-level meeting to review the progress of the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan in Jammu and Kashmir, calling for intensified efforts in early detection, treatment, and awareness to meet national TB elimination goals.

The Lieutenant Governor directed the Health Department to ensure availability of diagnostic tools such as CBNAAT and TrueNat across all districts and to prioritise screening and treatment in vulnerable populations. He also emphasised the need for regular patient monitoring to prevent drug resistance and stressed the use of daily SMS alerts and phone calls to remind patients to take medication.

Calling for wider public engagement, Sinha asked Deputy Commissioners to involve religious leaders, healthcare workers, sportspersons, and civil society groups in awareness campaigns. He said “TB Mukt Jammu Kashmir should be our common goal,” urging collective action through Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns.

The meeting also discussed the performance of JK under the National TB Elimination Programme, status of TB Mukt Panchayat initiatives, Ayushman Bharat card saturation, and procurement of treatment and testing equipment. Officials were also directed to encourage community members to enrol as Ni-Kshay Mitras to support TB patients.

A presentation on district-wise status of TB indicators and strategic plans was given by Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary, Health and Medical Education.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo; Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor; Baseer Ul Haq Chaudhary, Mission Director NHM J&K; Deputy Commissioners; heads of medical institutions; and senior health officials.