Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 25: Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Monday announced the nationwide expansion of the 100-Day Intensified TB Elimination Campaign, reinforcing India’s commitment to achieving a TB-Mukt Bharat.

Launched on December 7, 2024, the campaign initially covered 445 districts, focusing on early detection and treatment of tuberculosis. Addressing the World TB Day 2025 Summit, Nadda revealed that 7.19 lac new TB cases were identified during the campaign, including 2.85 lac asymptomatic cases that could have gone undetected without targeted screening.

With 12.97 cr people screened and TB treatment coverage rising from 59% to 85%, the campaign has seen widespread participation, including over 5,000 MLAs, 10,000-gram panchayats, and 30,000 elected representatives. The initiative received support from 22 ministries, showcasing a ‘whole of society, whole of government’ approach.

To improve accessibility, the campaign deployed Nikshay Vahans (mobile diagnostic units), handheld X-ray machines, and AI-supported RT-PCR testing, significantly enhancing detection in remote areas. Over 13.46 lakh Nikshay Shivirs (community screening camps) were conducted, ensuring essential TB services reached the grassroots level.

Additionally, 1,05,181 new ‘Nikshay Mitras’ registered to provide over 3,06,368 food baskets to TB patients and their families, addressing malnutrition concerns.

Nadda also lauded Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for its pioneering TB research and adaptation of Covid-era RT-PCR technology for cost-effective and efficient TB screening.

With the theme for World TB Day 2025—'Yes! we can end TB: Commit, invest, deliver’, the health ministry remains steadfast in its mission to eradicate TB from India.