Sirmaur rallies community to lead charge towards elimination of TB

In a determined move to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) from the grassroots, a key meeting of the District Tuberculosis (TB) Forum and District TB Elimination Committee was convened at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Sirmaur. Chaired by DC Sumit Khimta, the meeting brought together health officials, social workers and community leaders to reinforce inter-departmental coordination and public participation in the fight against TB.

Addressing the gathering, DC Khimta stressed the importance of community-led action, particularly in rural and remote pockets of the district, where detection and support are critical to halting the spread of TB. “We must act as one, involving every sector of society to ensure no patient is left behind,” he said.

To further strengthen outreach, DC Khimta announced the formation of TB Forum Committees in every panchayat, headed by the deputy pradhan and supported by the local medical officer, ASHA workers, anganwadi staff, and panchayat representatives. These grassroots committees, he said, would serve as the “first line of defence” in identifying cases, raising awareness, and ensuring timely treatment.

He also directed that TB elimination be a standing agenda item in every gram sabha meeting, turning community dialogue into a vehicle for change.

In a bid to improve patient care and recovery, DC Khimta emphasised the significance of nutritional support and called for greater participation in the Nikshay Mitra initiative under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan. So far, 55 Nikshay Mitras have registered in the district, with DC Khimta urging that number to grow. One notable contributor, M/s Tirupati Medicare Ltd, Paonta Sahib, is already providing protein supplements to TB patients under its CSR initiative.

To incentivise communities, DC Khimta announced that panchayats maintaining TB-free status for three consecutive years would be awarded Gold Medals, while 20 panchayats will receive Silver Medals this year for their success in achieving TB-free status.

Adding a personal touch to the campaign, a TB survivor shared their story, transforming the meeting into a moment of inspiration and awareness. Their journey from diagnosis to recovery helped destigmatize the illness and reaffirmed the importance of community support.

District TB Officer Dr Nisar Ahmed conducted the proceedings, highlighting the district’s progress under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) and outlining strategic goals moving forward.

Himachal Tribune