Target Vulnerable Populations and Implement Routine TB Testing for Early Detection: Sakeena Urges District Collectors

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 30: Sakeena Itoo, the Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, has directed Deputy Commissioners to identify at-risk populations in their districts and carry out regular testing for Tuberculosis (TB) to ensure early diagnosis.
These instructions were given during a high-level meeting to assess the progress of the 100-Day Tuberculosis Elimination Campaign in Jammu and Kashmir.
Attendees included Secretary of Health and Medical Education, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah; the Mission Director of the National Health Mission; Deputy Commissioners from all districts; Director of Finance Health and Medical Education; Directors of Health Services for Jammu and Kashmir; Directors of Coordination for New Medical Colleges; Principals from all Government Medical Colleges; Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) of all districts; and other relevant officials, some participating via video conference.
During the meeting, Minister Itoo emphasized the need for Deputy Commissioners and CMOs to accelerate testing and early detection efforts, especially in Gold Zone districts, aiming for them to achieve TB-free status. She urged health officials and district administrators to increase screening frequency, implement outreach programs, and boost community involvement to effectively control the spread of the disease. “Engage PRIs, ULBs, and local religious leaders in the campaign as they can reach remote areas more effectively,” Sakeena remarked.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of identifying vulnerable groups in both TB-free and TB-affected districts, advocating for regular screenings even in districts already declared TB-free to prevent any resurgence. She stressed, “Ongoing testing and active surveillance are critical to ensuring the successful long-term elimination of TB.”
Additionally, she called on the officers, particularly the Directors of health services, to remain vigilant, conduct routine screenings, and engage with at-risk groups to detect any undiagnosed cases promptly.
In reviewing various elements of the 100-Day TB Elimination Campaign, Sakeena Itoo proposed deploying mobile testing units for door-to-door screenings in remote areas. “It is vital to strengthen diagnostic facilities at the grassroots level to maintain community health,” she stated.
She also requested better coordination among district TB officers, ASHA and Anganwadi workers, local health units, NGOs, and community committees to enhance participation in TB prevention strategies.
During the meeting, the Mission Director of National Health Mission presented an overview of the campaign’s implementation progress across Jammu and Kashmir, noting that it aligns with the Union Government’s goal of achieving a TB-free India by 2025 through intensified detection, treatment, and eradication efforts.
The Minister further urged Deputy Commissioners to rehabilitate drug abuse victims by providing skill development and self-employment training during their stay in de-addiction centers to facilitate employment opportunities post-rehabilitation. She also called for improved infrastructure in their districts to address the issue effectively.