Lucknow: Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) on Thursday adopted 50 tuberculosis patients for treatment support and nutritional monitoring, as part of public health initiatives marking Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 76th birthday.An institute spokesperson said the programme, inspired by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, brought together faculty members, resident doctors, nursing staff, technologists and permanent employees who volunteered to adopt TB patients and help ensure continuity of care.As part of the support package, beneficiaries were provided nutrition kits containing jaggery, sattu, peanuts and Horlicks. The initiative aligns with efforts under National TB Elimination Programme that emphasise nutritional supplementation and community involvement to improve treatment outcomes.SGPGIMS director Prof RK Dhiman said India’s fight against TB must move beyond tertiary-care hospitals and rely on stronger community participation to achieve the goal of a TB-free India. Speaking on “From tertiary care to community impact: Leading UP’s fight against TB,” he underlined the need to take treatment, follow-up and care closer to patients to reduce dropouts and complications.Prof Richa Mishra, nodal officer for public health under National TB Elimination Programme, highlighted the role of public participation and nutrition in ensuring successful TB treatment. The institute reiterated its commitment to strengthening TB diagnosis, treatment and patient support systems.The day’s events concluded with an HPV vaccination drive in which 76 eligible girls were vaccinated. Dhiman said HPV vaccination is a key preventive intervention against cervical cancer and an important step for protecting women’s health.Earlier, the institute hosted a poster exhibition with around 200 entries prepared by students of College of Nursing and College of Medical Technology. A competition on TB and HPV awareness and conservation of non-renewable energy sources was also held. Winners across two categories, including schoolchildren and institute students as well as children of residents, faculty and staff, received cash prizes.
