The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, August 4:
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday highlighted the importance of community participation in eliminating tuberculosis from the national capital, stating that government efforts alone cannot achieve a TB-free Delhi without active involvement from citizens, public representatives and social organisations.
Addressing a sensitisation workshop organised under the TB-Free India Campaign at the Delhi Secretariat, the Chief Minister said the fight against tuberculosis has transformed into a nationwide public movement with people playing a crucial role in awareness, prevention and patient support.
The workshop was organised by the National Health Mission and Delhi State Health Mission to engage Members of Parliament, MLAs, councillors and other stakeholders in strengthening efforts against TB.
Under the TB-Free Delhi campaign, the Delhi Government is focusing on strengthening grassroots awareness, improving patient support systems and encouraging more people to become Nikshay Mitras. The initiative aims to ensure that every TB patient receives timely treatment, nutritional assistance and community support.
During the event, Rekha Gupta appealed to individuals, corporate groups, industries, resident welfare associations and voluntary organisations to join the Nikshay Mitra initiative and extend support to TB patients.
She said the role of a Nikshay Mitra goes beyond providing nutritional assistance, as it also helps patients gain confidence and emotional support during their treatment journey. The Chief Minister informed that thousands of Nikshay Mitras are already contributing towards the campaign in Delhi by helping patients with essential nutritional support.
She urged public representatives to spread awareness in their constituencies, encourage people to undergo timely testing and motivate patients to complete their prescribed treatment.
The Chief Minister reviewed the progress of the TB elimination campaign and visited awareness stalls showcasing initiatives related to patient care, rehabilitation, nutrition support and digital monitoring systems.
She directed officials to ensure that TB awareness campaigns reach every ward and local area so that citizens understand that tuberculosis is a curable disease and early diagnosis can save lives.
Highlighting Delhi’s performance under the national TB programme, Rekha Gupta said the city has consistently achieved a high percentage of its annual TB notification targets. She emphasised that removing social stigma around TB is equally important, as patients should feel encouraged to seek medical assistance without hesitation.
Delhi Health Minister Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh said eliminating tuberculosis requires a joint effort from government agencies, healthcare workers, public representatives and society.
He said the objective of the workshop was to make elected representatives active partners in the TB elimination mission by increasing awareness and improving outreach at the grassroots level.
The programme concluded with participants taking a collective pledge to support TB patients, promote early detection, encourage treatment completion and contribute towards building a TB-free Delhi.
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