PULWAMA: Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom today chaired a comprehensive review meeting at the Administrative Complex Pulwama to assess the preparedness and implementation strategy for the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan 100 Days Campaign in the district.
The TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan–100 Days Campaign was launched earlier on March 24, aimed at accelerating case detection, improving treatment adherence, and strengthening last-mile delivery of TB services.
At the outset, the District Programme Coordinator presented a detailed presentation, outlining the objectives, key strategies, target population, and operational framework of the campaign. It was informed that the initiative aims to proactively identify TB cases through systematic screening of vulnerable populations, reduce TB-related mortality through early detection and personalised care, and prevent new infections through TB Preventive Treatment, adopting a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach.
It was further informed that X-ray-based proactive screening, including the use of handheld X-ray units under Ayushman Arogya Shivir, will form a key component of the campaign strategy.
While reviewing the preparedness, the Deputy Commissioner stressed the need for meticulous micro-planning at all levels, ensuring proper line-listing and vulnerability mapping. He directed the concerned officers to ensure 100 percent screening of identified vulnerable populations, particularly in high-risk areas, and to make optimal use of available diagnostic infrastructure. Emphasis was laid on intensified case finding through advanced diagnostic tools including X-ray, NAAT and CBNAAT, to ensure comprehensive coverage.
During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner also conducted a detailed block-wise review of pendency in X-ray screening of the identified population. He directed all Block Medical Officers to formulate a clear action plan to ensure timely completion of X-ray screening, particularly in high-risk areas. He emphasised optimal utilisation of available X-ray facilities, and directed that weekly progress reports be submitted for close monitoring and timely intervention.
Dr. Qayoom further highlighted the importance of strengthening outreach mechanisms and called for intensified field-level activities to reach underserved populations. He also emphasised the need for seamless coordination among departments and directed for effective convergence to ensure successful implementation of the campaign.
Highlighting the role of community participation, the DC called for enhanced Jan Bhagidari by actively involving elected representatives, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, youth volunteers, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to create widespread awareness and ensure public cooperation in the fight against tuberculosis.
The Deputy Commissioner further stressed the importance of robust monitoring and real-time data reporting through the Nikshay portal to ensure proper tracking of cases and delivery of services. He also directed for ensuring adequate nutritional and psychosocial support to TB patients under existing schemes to improve treatment outcomes.
Concluding the meeting, Dr. Qayoom urged all stakeholders to work in a coordinated and mission mode in the fight against tuberculosis.
Among others, the meeting was attended by Chief Planning Officer Pulwama; Chief Medical Officer Pulwama; Medical Superintendent, District Hospital Pulwama; District Tuberculosis Officer Pulwama; Deputy Chief Medical Officer; Block Medical Officers; and Medical Officers of various health institutions.