A preparatory meeting on the Adult BCG Vaccination Programme was held at the Tribal Council office in Big Lapathy, Car Nicobar, to ensure smooth implementation of the district-wide drive scheduled to begin on 15th January, 2026. The programme forms part of India’s nationwide campaign to eliminate Tuberculosis (TB) by vaccinating vulnerable adult populations.
The meeting was chaired by the Chairman and Secretary of the Tribal Council, with attendance from all Village Headmen, Lady Representatives, and council members. Health officials from the district, including District TB Officer Anwar Moosa, District Programme Coordinator Ramesh Rao, and Senior Treatment Supervisor Suresh Kumar, provided detailed briefings on TB prevention, modes of transmission, treatment options, and the strategy for administering Adult BCG vaccinations across Car Nicobar.
During the session, officials emphasized the significance of the Adult BCG programme as a preventive intervention aimed at reducing TB incidence among adults, particularly in tribal communities that are considered high-risk due to limited healthcare access and awareness. The programme will utilize community halls in villages as vaccination centres to ensure accessibility and wide coverage.
Members of the Tribal Council actively engaged in discussions and pledged full support to the Health Department. The council resolved to direct Village First Captains to mobilize residents and facilitate community participation during the vaccination sessions. Tribal Council members further assured assistance in logistical coordination and local arrangements, highlighting the importance of collaborative action between administration and tribal leadership to achieve public health goals.
The meeting also focused on raising awareness within communities about TB symptoms, preventive measures, and the importance of adult immunization, stressing that informed participation is critical for the campaign’s success. Health officials noted that the program’s timely execution will complement ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in Nicobar District.
This initiative represents the Administration’s commitment to proactive healthcare measures in remote areas, with tribal leadership playing a key role in ensuring outreach and compliance. The council’s engagement is expected to enhance trust and participation among residents, allowing for efficient and effective delivery of vaccinations.
With the drive set to begin mid-January, the Adult BCG Vaccination Programme is poised to cover all villages under Car Nicobar, integrating community-led facilitation with district-level health services. Officials expressed optimism that such coordinated efforts will contribute to reducing the burden of TB and advancing public health in the region.
