September 09:
Today, Smt Droupadi Murmu, the President of India, effectively started the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan.
Speaking on the event, the President stated that it is the responsibility of all citizens to prioritise the ‘Pradhan Mantri TB-Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan’ and turn it into a mass movement. Because tuberculosis kills more people than any other infectious disease in our country.
She pointed out that while India has little less than 20% of the world’s population, it has more than 25% of the world’s TB cases. This is a source of concern. She also mentioned that the majority of those affected by tuberculosis came from low-income families.
The President stated that the thinking and methodology of ‘New India’ is to make India a world leader. In dealing with the COVID-19 epidemic, India has set an example for the rest of the world. The ‘New India’ philosophy of moving forward with confidence is also seen in the field of tuberculosis elimination.
All governments have established the goal of eradicating tuberculosis by 2030, according to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. However, the Government of India has established the goal of eradicating tuberculosis by 2025, and efforts are being made at all levels to achieve this goal.
The President said that to make this campaign a mass movement, awareness about TB has to be created among the people. They have to be informed that prevention of this disease is possible. Its treatment is effective and accessible and the government provides a free of cost facility for prevention and treatment of this disease.
She said that in some patients or communities, there is an inferiority complex associated with this disease, and they view the disease as a stigma. This illusion also has to be eradicated.
Everyone should be aware that TB germs are often present in everyone’s body. When the immunity of a person, due to some reason, decreases, then this disease expresses in the person. With treatment, one can definitely get rid of this disease. All these things should reach the people. Then the people affected by TB will be able to take advantage of the treatment facilities.
The Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan has been envisioned to bring together all community stakeholders to support those on TB treatment and accelerate the country’s progress towards TB elimination.
The virtual event was attended by Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar, Governors and Lt. Governors of states and UTs, representatives from State and District Health Administration and other stakeholders.
