Patiala: To mark World TB Day, Punjab health and family welfare minister Dr Balbir Singh on Tuesday launched the state-level ‘TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ at the Padma Shri Dr Khushdeva Singh Chest Diseases and TB Hospital here.The minister also flagged off a mobile CB-NAAT van to facilitate on-the-spot testing of suspected patients and ensure immediate initiation of treatment for those diagnosed with tuberculosis.Dr Balbir Singh said TB remained a serious public health challenge, with around 60,000 cases reported annually in Punjab, while many cases still go undetected. He urged the people to actively participate in the campaign and come forward as ‘Ni-kshay Mitras’ to help eliminate TB and remove the stigma associated with the disease.He said under the campaign, special screening was conducted among the elderly, residents of slums, and other high-risk groups, with prompt treatment ensured for those in need. The minister appreciated the support of social organisations in making the campaign successful.Dr Balbir Singh said under the leadership of chief minister Bhagwant Mann, the Punjab govt prioritised health, education and employment. He said the state undertook a unique initiative to provide nutritious food to 40 lakh families and offered free treatment up to Rs 10 lakh to 65 lakh families.He said Punjab witnessed a health transformation, with new medical colleges being established and free medicines being provided through Aam Aadmi Clinics, making govt hospitals a boon for the public.Dr R P S Sibia, director principal of Medical College; state TB officer Dr Rajesh Bhaskar; Dr Vishal Chopra, deputy medical superintendent of TB Hospital; civil surgeon Dr Jaswinder Singh; SMOs; and medical officers were also present.MSID:: 129779214 413 |
