The State TB Cell under the Directorate of Health and Family Welfare, Nagaland, convened its quarterly review meeting of the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) at the Directorate’s conference hall in Kohima on Thursday.
State TB Officer Dr Akum Jamir, in his welcome and introductory remarks, outlined key programmes being implemented under NTEP Nagaland, including the rollout of the 100 Days Campaign. He appreciated district teams for adapting and preparing strategic plans at short notice, while stressing the importance of regular programme evaluation.
Dr Jamir said TB elimination efforts were aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3 on Good Health and Well-Being. He noted that India accounts for about 28% of the global TB burden despite having around 17% of the world’s population, highlighting the need for intensified elimination efforts.
While Prime Minister Narendra Modi had set a national target of eliminating TB by 2025, Dr Jamir said progress had been affected by global setbacks, particularly disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
He highlighted increased administrative oversight of the programme, including monitoring through Centrally Sponsored Schemes and enhanced supervision extending to the block level. He said Prabhari Nodal Officers had been assigned to visit blocks and districts to oversee implementation, while State Chief Secretaries review programme execution and targets periodically.
Dr Jamir also highlighted advances in TB diagnosis, noting a shift from sputum microscopy towards rapid molecular testing and chest X-rays for early detection. He said X-ray machines and advanced diagnostic equipment were being positioned at block and district levels, while sputum microscopy was increasingly used for follow-up.
Screening efforts are focusing on high-risk and vulnerable populations, particularly those aged 14 years and above, alongside the use of digital tools integrated into the Ni-kshay platform.
WHO Consultant Dr Collins Z Sono updated participants on the TB Mukt Abhiyan.
District officials presented their strategic plans, followed by discussions on ACSM, drugs, NGOs and X-ray services. Director of Medical Education Dr Puse Liegise delivered the vote of thanks.
