In a concerted effort to eliminate tuberculosis and strengthen preventive healthcare, the District Administration of South Andaman has launched a series of health awareness and screening camps under the Government of India’s TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (TMBMA). The initiative, carried out through the District Health Society in coordination with the Directorate of Health Services, RMRC-ICMR, and Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council, aims to detect early signs of TB, promote lung health, and provide digital health access to residents.
The first set of camps was organized at Community Hall in Haddo and the School Line area, covering Ward No. 01 and Ward No. 16, respectively. A total of 67 individuals at Haddo and 53 at School Line participated in the camps. These locations were strategically chosen to target vulnerable populations and expand outreach in densely populated residential wards.
The camps featured a multi-layered approach to health services. One of the key diagnostic tools deployed was the hand-held chest X-ray machine provided by ICMR-RMRC, which enabled on-the-spot lung screenings. Medical personnel conducted routine check-ups for blood pressure and blood sugar, ensuring that basic health monitoring was available to all participants.
Doctors from the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) were stationed to conduct clinical evaluations, assess symptoms, and identify potential TB cases. Those showing symptoms were referred for further diagnostic testing, enabling early intervention and reducing the risk of disease spread.
In parallel, the camps facilitated the generation of Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) IDs and Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) e-cards. These initiatives are part of the larger Ayushman Bharat digital health mission aimed at creating an integrated digital health ecosystem in the country. With ABHA IDs, individuals gain access to their health records digitally, while the PM-JAY card allows eligible citizens to receive free treatment in empaneled hospitals.
Local elected representatives played an active role in mobilizing the community. S. Shahul Hameed, Chairperson of the Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council and Councillor of Ward No. 01, along with C. Karunanidhi, Councillor of Ward No. 16, visited the camps to encourage public participation. Their involvement underscored the importance of community-driven public health initiatives.
The District Administration has reiterated the importance of early detection and timely treatment as the most effective tools against TB. Officials also stressed that such camps play a dual role: they create public awareness while directly linking citizens to healthcare benefits.
Subsequent screening camps have been scheduled in other parts of the district. Information on locations and dates is available at respective Health and Wellness Centres and through Urban Local Bodies. Residents are encouraged to attend the camps for free diagnostics and access to healthcare entitlements.
The TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan continues to be a cornerstone of India’s public health strategy, with island regions like South Andaman taking an active role in implementation. By combining diagnostics, outreach, and digital health access, the district aims to not only detect TB cases early but also empower citizens to take control of their health.
