Odisha launches 100-day campaign to combat Tuberculosis

A vigorous new campaign aimed at eradicating tuberculosis from Odisha within 100 days was launched on Saturday. Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling inaugurated the campaign.

As per the information shared by Health Minister Mahaling, this effort, a part of the broader National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), will be implemented in as many as 19 districts known for higher TB prevalence.

The campaign will be carried out in the districts such as Bolangir, Bargarh, Bhadrak, Boudh, Cuttack, Deogarh, Ganjam, Jagatsinghpur, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Kendrapara, Keonjhar, Koraput, Malkangiri, Mayurbhanj, Puri, Rayagada, Subarnapur, and Sundargarh.

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On this occasion, the Health Minister stated the campaign aligns with the Prime Minister's vision of achieving a tuberculosis-free India and Odisha by 2025.

The campaign emphasises early detection of the disease and prioritised screenings for those at greater risk of contracting tuberculosis.

Furthermore, it aims to deliver targeted treatments and distribute nutrition-packed food to people who are more vulnerable.

Statistics show an 18% reduction in tuberculosis cases and a 22% decrease in TB-related fatalities in India between 2015 and 2023.

“It has been Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s resolution to free India as well as Odisha from tuberculosis by 2025. In Odisha, it has also been Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s message. The special campaign of 100 days has been launched in India including Odisha. On such occasion, we are taking a pledge to make Odisha a TB-free state by 2025,” said Health Minister Mahaling.

On this occasion, the Health Minister also flagged off the Nikshay Vahan, a fleet of vehicles the will help enhance diagnostics, screening and treatment services in remote areas.