The 45th World Tuberculosis (TB) Day was observed in Imphal with the launch of the 100 Days TB Mukta Abhiyan at the JNIMS Auditorium.
The programme was organised by the National TB Elimination Programme under the National Health Mission and the Directorate of Health Services, Government of Manipur, under the theme “Yes, we can end TB: Led by Bharat, Powered by Janbhagidari.”
Director of Health Services, Manipur, Dr. N. Hemantakumar Singh, attended as Chief Guest, along with Medical Superintendent of JNIMS, Dr. Kh. Lokeshwar Singh, as Guest of Honour, and State Mission Director, State Health Society, Manipur, Dr. M. Dinesh Singh, as President.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Hemantakumar Singh said the 100-day campaign aims to intensify efforts towards eliminating tuberculosis and achieving a TB-free India. He stressed the need for collective action, early detection, and proper treatment, urging people with symptoms such as persistent cough, fever, and weight loss to seek timely medical care.
Dr. Lokeshwar Singh highlighted that while the global target to eliminate TB under the Sustainable Development Goals is 2030, India aims to achieve it by 2025. He noted that awareness, early diagnosis, and community participation are crucial, especially for vulnerable groups.
The day, observed annually on March 24, commemorates the discovery of the TB bacterium by Robert Koch in 1882 and aims to raise awareness about the disease.
Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda virtually relaunched the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan under the 100-day campaign. A rally was also flagged off earlier in the day from the CMO Complex, Imphal East.
The programme featured prize distribution for a painting competition, felicitation of Ni-Kshay Mitras and TB-free villages, and distribution of food baskets. Officials, healthcare workers, students, and ASHA workers attended the event.
