Itanagar: The District Health Society of West Kameng, led by Deputy Commissioner Akriti Sagar (IAS), marked World Tuberculosis (TB) Day with a focus on the theme “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver.”
The event was held at Kameng Club, Bomdila, and was simultaneously observed across 34 health centers in the district.
Deputy Commissioner Akriti Sagar commended the District Tuberculosis Officer (DTO) and her team for their dedicated efforts, which have made West Kameng one of the best-performing districts in TB control.
Emphasizing the need for community involvement, she urged residents to report TB cases promptly for early detection and treatment. She assured full administrative support to make West Kameng TB-free, stating, “TB-related deaths are preventable with timely treatment. Nikshay Mitras, Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), and other stakeholders must actively promote TB awareness and prevention.”
DTO Smti Newang Drema presented a comprehensive progress report, highlighting the symptoms of TB—persistent cough (over two weeks), evening fever, appetite loss, and weight loss—and encouraged those experiencing these signs to seek medical attention. Drema also acknowledged the contribution of Nikshay Mitras in supporting TB patients and reported that 27 gram panchayats in the district have been declared TB-free. Among them, three received Silver Awards while 24 received Bronze Awards. She further noted an impressive 97.2% TB treatment success rate and detailed the incentives provided under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana (NPY).
The event began with a welcome address by District Medical Officer Dr. R.D. Thongchi, who underscored the historical significance of World TB Day, commemorating Robert Koch’s discovery of the TB-causing bacterium on March 24, 1882.
In recognition of their contributions to TB eradication, the District Health Society felicitated Nikshay Mitras and best-performing Gram Panchayats. The program witnessed participation from MLA’s representatives, medical professionals, students, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), ASHAs, PRI members, DOT providers, and local residents.
As part of their continued health initiatives, the District Health Society also launched a month-long Special NCD screening drive across various offices. To date, screenings have been conducted in 16 offices, covering 1,185 individuals, with the campaign set to continue until March 31st.
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