Recently Chief Secretary, chaired a high level meeting to review progress on the TB Mukt campaign launched by the Health Department.

Taking notice of high incidence of Tuberculosis (TB) and increasing cases of Multi Drug Resistant (MDR) TB in Jammu, he termed the situation as a “real cause of concern” and stressed the need for a well structured strategy to tackle the issue effectively.

He emphasized that the success of the campaign should be reflected in a tangible decline in TB cases on the ground. He sought details regarding the criteria adopted for declaring TB-free Panchayats and called for proper documentation of the gains made through the 100 Day TB Elimination Campaign.

During the meeting, he directed the department to conduct an internal audit to assess the resource requirements based on the district wise incidence of the disease. He asked for deploying additional manpower and medical equipment in high-burden districts while optimising resources in low-incidence areas.

To strengthen the fight against TB, the Chief Secretary underscored the importance of enhancing public awareness about its causes, prevention and cure. He called for intensified screening and testing, particularly among the vulnerable populations. He also reviewed the functioning of Intermediary Reference Labs (IRLs) in Jammu and Srinagar, seeking details on their diagnostic capabilities and the role they play in TB detection.