In a continuing effort to strengthen India’s fight against tuberculosis, a TB awareness and screening programme was held at Government Secondary School, South Point, under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (PMTBMBA) on July 22.
The initiative focused on sensitising school students and faculty about tuberculosis, its symptoms, transmission, prevention, and the significance of early diagnosis and treatment. A total of 81 students and eight teachers participated in the event, which featured interactive and informative sessions led by healthcare professionals.
The sessions aimed to equip participants with essential knowledge to identify TB symptoms early and encourage timely medical intervention. Attendees were educated on signs such as prolonged cough, fatigue, weight loss, and fever, and were urged to seek prompt treatment. The discussions also emphasised the importance of completing the full course of TB medication to prevent drug resistance and ensure full recovery.
Healthcare professionals conducting the session highlighted the elevated risks TB poses to vulnerable populations and the need for community-level surveillance and early case detection. The program also promoted health-seeking behaviour and encouraged participants to spread awareness within their families and local communities.
As part of the awareness effort, the school’s headmistress and faculty were invited to enrol as “Nikshay Mitras” under the Government of India’s Ni-Kshay Mitra initiative. This initiative allows individuals and institutions to support TB patients through nutritional aid, emotional support, and community outreach. Teachers were encouraged to play a proactive role in mobilising support and engaging with TB-affected individuals within their localities.
The drive at South Point is part of a broader campaign aiming to eliminate TB from India by 2025, aligning with the Centre’s strategy of Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation). By involving educational institutions, the campaign seeks to create a ripple effect that extends beyond classrooms, enabling grassroots-level awareness and action against TB.
Such outreach events are being conducted across the country as part of the national movement to combat TB. The collaboration between schools and the health department ensures that awareness reaches young citizens, who can play a vital role in breaking the stigma around TB and spreading accurate health information.
Through awareness, community engagement, and public-private partnership models like Ni-Kshay Mitra, the PMTBMBA continues to advance India’s goal of a TB-free society by the end of 2025.
