Panchkula, Haryana – Union Health Minister JP Nadda has officially launched the ambitious 100-day TB elimination campaign in Panchkula at the Indradhanush Auditorium. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini, Health Minister Arti Rao, and other state cabinet ministers were present to mark this historic occasion.
During the program, JP Nadda visited a special exhibition and described the campaign as a milestone in the fight against tuberculosis. He said, "Our goal is to make India TB-free by 2025. This day represents our commitment and determination. Learning from the past, we must work for a better future."
Ayushman Bharat Yojana’s Role in Supporting TB Patients
Highlighting the success of government schemes, Nadda noted that 173,000 TB patients have received financial aid through the Ayushman Bharat scheme. Each patient is provided with ₹1,000 per month as assistance. He emphasized that this initiative is proving critical in combating TB and improving patient welfare.
Advancements in Healthcare Services
In addition to the TB campaign, Nadda announced significant measures to improve healthcare in Haryana. These include the establishment of an AIIMS in Rewari and plans to build a medical college in every district. These efforts aim to enhance healthcare access and quality for Haryana residents.
A Decisive Fight Against Tuberculosis
Calling the campaign a "decisive fight against TB," Nadda underscored the slogan “Tab Haarega, Bharat Jeetega” (TB will lose, India will win) as a symbol of collective resolve. He appealed to citizens and authorities alike to unite and achieve the dream of a TB-free India.
A National Effort to Eradicate TB
The 100-day TB elimination campaign spans 347 districts across 33 states and union territories. It is part of the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) under the National Health Mission and aligned with the National Strategic Plan (NSP) for TB Elimination 2017–2025.
India has made notable progress in reducing TB incidence, which dropped by 17.7% from 237 cases per 100,000 in 2015 to 195 cases per 100,000 in 2023. TB-related deaths also declined by 21.4% during the same period.
Innovations and Progress Post-COVID-19
Post-COVID-19, efforts to combat TB intensified under the NTEP. In 2023, approximately 1.89 crore sputum smear tests and 68.3 lakh nucleic acid amplification tests were conducted, expanding diagnostic access. Comprehensive care packages and shorter treatment regimens for drug-resistant TB patients were introduced, ensuring faster recovery and minimizing delays.
The program also addresses co-existing health conditions such as malnutrition, diabetes, HIV, and substance abuse through specialized care approaches. Preventive measures, including TB preventive treatment (TPT), have been scaled up, benefitting nearly 15 lakh individuals.
A Vision for a TB-Free India
This campaign echoes the vision outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 2018 End TB Summit, where he pledged to eliminate TB in India by 2025. The 100-day initiative not only strengthens health services but also improves the quality of life for millions, paving the way for a healthier, TB-free nation.
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