Nagaland Governor La Ganesan has called for urgent and collective action to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) from the state by 2025, emphasising the vital role of religious leaders, community organisations, and individual citizens in combating the disease.
Convening a high-level review meeting on the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan at Raj Bhavan Kohima on Sunday, the Governor appealed to faith-based institutions to help break the stigma surrounding TB and spread awareness in the remotest corners of the state. He also urged people to register as Nikshay Mitras — voluntary donors who provide nutritional and psychosocial support to TB patients — to improve recovery outcomes and quality of life.
“Religious leaders have a powerful voice in our communities. We must use that influence to bring TB out of the shadows,” the Governor said, while appreciating the efforts of the Department of Health and Family Welfare.
Health Minister Paiwang Konyak briefed the Governor on the state’s achievements and remaining challenges, citing ongoing initiatives to improve treatment access, awareness, and surveillance, especially in vulnerable regions.
He expressed optimism that with continued leadership and public support, Nagaland can meet its TB-free target by the national deadline.
Commissioner & Secretary Anoop Khinchi emphasised inter-sectoral coordination and the crucial role of community engagement in early detection and patient support, while Principal Secretary Y. Kikheto Sema, representing the Chief Secretary, said that churches and civil society must lead awareness efforts.
“Special health camps must be conducted across all districts. Churches and local bodies are key to encouraging behavioural change,” Sema said.
The department also presented recent data on TB prevalence and discussed treatment adherence, diagnostic outreach, and the role of community health workers under the National TB Elimination Programme.
The meeting concluded with a renewed pledge from all stakeholders to intensify efforts and ensure Nagaland joins the national goal of a TB-free India by 2025.