Sri Vijaya Puram, May 25: The Andaman and Nicobar Administration has intensified its public health outreach across the islands through a series of healthcare campaigns focused on tuberculosis elimination, tobacco awareness and preventive livestock care ahead of the monsoon season, with authorities highlighting community participation and grassroots-level intervention as central to the efforts.
As part of the ongoing TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan’s 100 Days Intensified Campaign, launched on March 24, the Administration said the islands have witnessed extensive screening and awareness activities aimed at identifying undiagnosed tuberculosis cases, reducing TB-related deaths and strengthening preventive healthcare systems.
According to official data released on May 24, a total of 616 Ayushman Arogya Shivirs have been conducted across urban, rural and congregate settings in the islands between March 24 and May 23. The campaign recorded a footfall of 22,656 individuals, including 10,367 males and 12,289 females. Authorities said 7,415 chest X-rays and 1,718 NAAT diagnostic tests were conducted during the period, leading to the notification of 73 TB cases.
Health officials said the intensified campaign is targeting vulnerable populations through proactive screening using chest X-rays and upfront molecular testing while integrating TB screening with broader non-communicable disease services. Screening for blood pressure, blood sugar, anaemia and body mass index has also been included under the campaign framework.
The Administration said the programme is also focusing on reducing mortality through nutritional support, management of co-morbidities and regular patient follow-up. Preventive treatment is being extended to high-risk groups including household contacts of TB patients and People Living with HIV.
Officials further said the campaign is being implemented using a “whole-of-government” and “whole-of-society” approach to encourage public participation and reduce stigma associated with the disease. A total of 324 Janbhagidari and community engagement activities have been conducted so far, involving elected representatives, educational institutions, line departments and volunteers.
The Administration appealed to residents, especially senior citizens, diabetics, smokers, alcohol users, undernourished individuals and those with prior TB exposure, to undergo screening at nearby public health facilities. Citizens were also encouraged to come forward as Nikshay Mitras to provide nutritional and psychosocial support to TB patients.
The renewed public health push coincides with wider awareness campaigns being conducted in the islands ahead of World No Tobacco Day 2026. In Mayabunder, a training programme for ASHAs was organised at Dr. R.P. Hospital in coordination with the Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts (IRCA).
Medical professionals during the programme highlighted the harmful effects of tobacco consumption, the importance of early intervention and the need for counselling and rehabilitation support. Sessions also addressed mental health disorders, psychological well-being and the stigma associated with mental illness.
Doctors and health officials interacted with ASHAs on preventive healthcare strategies and healthy lifestyle practices while participants took a pledge towards promoting a tobacco-free society.
Meanwhile, the Directorate of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services has also launched a Mass Deworming Programme across South Andaman district ahead of the monsoon season and the upcoming Foot and Mouth Disease vaccination campaign.
The department said veterinary officers and field staff have been visiting households and livestock farms to administer deworming treatment and spread awareness regarding preventive animal healthcare. So far, 144 cattle and 14 buffaloes belonging to 38 livestock farmers have been covered under the campaign.
Officials said the programme aims to improve livestock health, disease resistance and productivity, especially in rural and remote areas where animal husbandry remains a key livelihood source.
Separately, the India Meteorological Department has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph and lightning at isolated places across the islands between May 25 and May 30. Squally weather conditions with winds occasionally gusting up to 60 kmph are also likely along and off the Andaman and Nicobar coast.
Authorities have advised residents, fishermen and those engaged in marine activities to remain cautious during the period as rough weather conditions may affect normal coastal movement and outdoor activities.
The multiple campaigns underway across the islands reflect a broader administrative focus on preventive healthcare, disease surveillance, public awareness and preparedness ahead of the monsoon season, with departments increasingly relying on community outreach and inter-departmental coordination to strengthen last-mile delivery of services.
