Campbell Bay, May 5: In a significant step towards strengthening tuberculosis detection and public healthcare outreach in remote island regions, an Ayushman Arogya Shivir equipped with a handheld X-ray screening facility was conducted today at the Tribal Community Hall in Rajiv Nagar, Campbell Bay.
The health camp, organized under the ongoing TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, saw active participation from healthcare professionals and local authorities, aiming to enhance early detection and control of tuberculosis in the Nicobar region.
The programme was attended by Assistant Commissioner Shivam Tashi Dhawa and Chairman, CTC, Barnabas Manju, along with village Captains, reflecting strong administrative and community support for the initiative.
Conducted under the supervision of Dr. Meena Nasir, Medical Officer (In-Charge), the camp involved a dedicated team of healthcare workers including Dr. Y. Rajeshwari, Medical Officer (Ayurveda), along with Lady Health Visitors (LHV), Health Educators, ANMs, ASHAs, and Anganwadi workers. Their coordinated efforts ensured smooth execution of the screening programme.
A specialized team from Car Nicobar, comprising District Programme Coordinator Ramesh Rao and PMDT Coordinator S. Loknathan, operated the handheld X-ray unit. The use of portable diagnostic technology enabled efficient screening of vulnerable populations in the region, where access to advanced medical facilities remains limited.
During the camp, a total of 64 individuals underwent X-ray screening, marking a crucial step in identifying potential tuberculosis cases at an early stage. Health officials emphasized that early detection is key to effective treatment and prevention of further transmission, especially in geographically isolated communities like Campbell Bay.
The initiative forms part of the 100 Days Campaign under the National TB Elimination Programme, which aims to accelerate case detection and strengthen surveillance mechanisms across the country. Officials noted that such targeted interventions are vital in bridging healthcare gaps in remote and underserved areas.
Looking ahead, the health department has planned to extend outreach screening activities to even more remote locations, including Afra Bay, Makachua, Pilloulou, and Pulo Panja. These areas, often difficult to access, are being prioritized to ensure that no vulnerable population is left out of the screening drive.
Authorities reiterated that the use of handheld X-ray technology, combined with on-ground healthcare support, is proving to be an effective model for expanding diagnostic coverage in island territories. The initiative also highlights the importance of community engagement, with local participation playing a crucial role in mobilizing residents for screening.
Health officials reaffirmed their commitment to achieving the national goal of a tuberculosis-free India, stating that sustained efforts under the National TB Elimination Programme will continue to focus on early diagnosis, timely treatment, and awareness generation.
The successful conduct of the Ayushman Arogya Shivir in Campbell Bay underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery systems in remote regions while advancing the mission of eliminating tuberculosis from the country.
