A total of 166 villages in Nagaland have been declared TB-free as part of efforts to eliminate tuberculosis in the state. Marking World TB Day, 14 villages were awarded under the silver category, while 126 villages received recognition under the bronze category.
The awards were presented by respective Deputy Commissioners at functions held across various districts. In Kohima, a program was held at Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (NIMSR), where Dr E Motsuthung Patton, Principal Director of the Health & Family Welfare Department, highlighted the significance of the recognition.
He explained that the bronze award is given to villages that have maintained a TB-free status for one year, while the silver category is awarded for two consecutive years. Villages that remain TB-free for three years receive the gold category award, which comes with a statue of Mahatma Gandhi along with a certificate.
Nagaland observes World Tuberculosis Day with renewed commitment to eradication
Nagaland observed World Tuberculosis (TB) Day on March 24, 2025, under the theme “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,” with events held across multiple districts emphasizing awareness, treatment, and community participation in the fight against the disease.
Kohima: Twelve villages in Kohima district were recognized for their outstanding commitment to eliminating TB, standing out among 58 villages in the region. This achievement aligns with the district’s vision of becoming the first 100% TB-free district in Nagaland, setting an example for other regions to follow.
Addressing the gathering at the DC Conference Hall in Kohima, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, NCS, congratulated the villages and emphasized the importance of sustained commitment. He underscored that eliminating TB is not solely the responsibility of the government or medical professionals but a collective effort requiring participation from every individual and village.
Buchem encouraged all villages to take inspiration from the twelve recognized villages and commit to making their communities TB-free. Expressing optimism, he hoped that by next year, more villages would join the initiative and implement necessary measures to eradicate TB.
Reflecting on his personal connection to healthcare, Buchem shared a deeply moving account of his late mother, a dedicated nurse who devoted her life to serving patients. Despite her own health struggles, she remained committed to her calling, ultimately passing away while caring for a patient. He stated that her sacrifice shaped his perspective on service, reinforcing his belief that such efforts are not just jobs but missions with a higher purpose. He urged the gathering to recognize that while the impact of their work may not always be immediately visible, it will transform lives for generations to come.
With the theme “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,” the event celebrated progress while renewing the call to action. District Tuberculosis Officer, Dr Chibenthung Kithan, stressed the urgency of eliminating TB, reminding the gathering that it remains the deadliest infectious disease but is entirely curable with timely intervention. He urged communities to work collectively to eliminate TB.
As part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, the Nikshay Mitra initiative encourages community support for TB patients through nutritional, vocational, or diagnostic assistance. One such dedicated Nikshay Mitra, Joint Director, Department of Veterinary & Animal Husbandry, Dr Amenla Walling, shared her journey of supporting TB patients. Growing up in Mokokchung, she recalled how TB patients were treated with fear and isolation, often facing stigma even after recovery. Through education and awareness, she learned that TB is preventable and treatable. She emphasized that while providing nutrition is crucial, spreading awareness is equally important. Since taking on this role, she has personally supported multiple TB patients, ensuring they complete their six-month treatment regimen. Her message to TB patients was clear: prioritize health, complete the prescribed treatment, and never stop halfway, as TB is curable with early detection.
Under the TB Mukt Panchayat initiative, villages that meet specific TB-free criteria receive a certificate and a Mahatma Gandhi statue on World TB Day. The statue’s color signifies the duration of TB-free status. This year, Seiyha Phesa was awarded the silver statue, while eleven other villages received the bronze statue for their efforts in TB eradication. The recognized villages included Mezo Basa, Tseisema Bawe, Gariphema Bawe, Tuophe Phezou, Tseimekhuma Bawe, Seiyhama, New Terogvunyu, Z. Likwenchu, Tsonsa, Sewanu, and New Tesophenyu. This recognition underscores the community’s collective commitment to eliminating TB and fostering healthier villages.
The event also featured a testimonial from TB champion Keneivonuo, who shared her personal experience with the disease, reinforcing the message that TB is curable but awareness and action are crucial.
Bringing together stakeholders, medical professionals, NGOs, and community leaders, the event reaffirmed Kohima’s commitment to a TB-free future.
Mokokchung: The District Tuberculosis Centre observed World TB Day 2025 under the theme “Yes! We Can End Tb: Commit, Invest, Deliver” at the CMO Conference Hall. The event, chaired by Dr. Maongtola, MD, IMDH, featured key addresses by Dr S Marina Yaden, CMO Mokokchung, and Dr R Toshimenla Jamir, District TB Officer.
Dr Jamir emphasized India’s commitment to eliminating TB by 2025, five years ahead of the global target. She highlighted initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and the Nikshay Mitra programme, stressing the need for community participation to achieve this goal.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Chumlamo Humtsoe urged stakeholders to actively support TB elimination efforts, while Smti Imyapangla, Project Director, DRDA, called for ending stigma and ensuring free TB testing and treatment.
The event also featured a personal testimony from TB Champion Naresh Thapa and recognized Aosetsü and Meküli villages as TB Mukt Panchayats.
With only two TB-free villages (Ao Settsü and Meküli) among Mokokchung’s 88, officials reiterated the need for continued efforts to eradicate the disease. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. P. Medemmayang, SMO, DRTB Centre.
World TB Day is observed annually on March 24 to raise awareness and accelerate efforts toward TB elimination.
Dimapur: The Dimapur event, held at the CMO Conference Hall, also served as a platform for the District Action Plan Coordination Committee (DAPCC) and vertical program discussions. Deputy Commissioner Dr. Tinojungshi Chang reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating TB and emphasized grassroots efforts involving 19 key villages.
Dr T Temsu Lkr, Chief Medical Officer, called for continued investment and cooperation in the fight against TB. The program included a felicitation ceremony recognizing TB Muk Panchayat (TB-free villages) Awards, appreciation certificates for healthcare workers, and presentations on disease control programs such as NTEP and the National Vector Borne Disease Control Program (NVBDCP). Testimonies from TB survivors, including Monica, shed light on the personal struggles of patients and the importance of timely intervention.
Tuensang: At Tuensang’s Town Hall, Deputy Commissioner Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa stressed the need for community support in eradicating TB, noting that 251 cases had been detected in the past year. She urged NGOs, government employees, and the public to contribute towards patient nutrition and emphasized eliminating stigma surrounding TB patients.
Key speakers included Dr Alemba R Jamir, who delivered the keynote address, and TB champion Hanso, who shared an inspiring recovery story. The program also featured a drama by TTBL to enhance awareness and a certification ceremony for Mitra volunteers.
Noklak: In Noklak, Deputy Commissioner Arikumba emphasized the communal fight against TB and pledged the District Planning and Development Board’s (DPDB) financial support for needy patients. CMO Dr. Victor NC detailed TB symptoms, causes, and free treatment options, assuring attendees that the disease is entirely curable.
A special presentation of nutritional supplements to adopted TB patients was conducted by district officials, underscoring the importance of holistic patient care.
Longleng: Longleng’s observance took place at the VCC & VDB Conference Hall, where EAC Pipfusa Pojar urged all stakeholders, including government agencies and civil society, to take an active role in achieving a TB-free district. She emphasized the need to break the stigma associated with TB and ensure dignified treatment for patients.
Keynote speaker Dr Temsusashi, along with Senior Treatment Specialist Tongang, provided insights into TB prevention and treatment. The program also recognized TB Mukt Panchayat awardees and honored outstanding Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) for their contributions.
Peren: At Athibung PHC in Peren, District TB Officer Dr Keholi Sema highlighted the significance of early detection and community awareness. Special guest Sulanthung, SDO (Civil), urged individuals to prioritize health and take proactive steps toward TB elimination.
The program included an awareness session on Designated Microscopy Centres, presentations on TB symptoms, and a motivational address reinforcing the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
Statewide commitment to a TB-Free Nagaland
The observance of World TB Day across Nagaland reinforced the state’s dedication to eradicating tuberculosis through community-driven initiatives, government support, and strengthened healthcare infrastructure. With increased collaboration between stakeholders and sustained public awareness, Nagaland moves closer to achieving its goal of a TB-free future by 2025.