New Delhi, July 1 (IANS) Health Minister JP Nadda on Wednesday chaired a review meeting of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and 100-day campaign with the government of NCT of Delhi, emphasising that while significant efforts have been made under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, the remaining gap between efforts and outcomes can only be bridged through Jan Bhagidari.

The minister stated that tuberculosis elimination cannot be achieved by the health system in isolation and called for a people’s movement with active participation from communities, public representatives and civil society.

Health Minister stressed that Members of Parliament, Members of Legislative Assemblies and Municipal Councillors should be regularly apprised by health officials about the TB burden in their respective constituencies, the challenges being faced, the solutions being implemented and the specific role they can play in accelerating case detection, ensuring treatment adherence and mobilising community support.

He noted that public representatives are an important bridge between the Government and the people, and their active involvement can significantly strengthen grassroots implementation of the campaign.

Nadda underlined that implementation should be based on cooperation rather than working in isolation.

He directed that every ward should have a designated Senior Government officer to monitor the progress of the campaign.

Highlighting the role of technology in strengthening TB detection, the Union Minister said that support would be provided for more numbers of handheld X-ray machines integrated with Artificial Intelligence (AI) to facilitate early diagnosis and improve case detection.

Nadda also chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the preparedness for prevention and control of dengue in Delhi ahead of the monsoon season.

The meeting focused on reviewing the evolving epidemiological situation, evaluating the readiness of healthcare institutions and civic agencies. Health Minister was briefed on the national dengue scenario and the preparedness measures undertaken across the country, with special emphasis on the National Capital Territory of Delhi.

A comprehensive action plan for dengue prevention and control in Delhi was presented, highlighting key interventions to strengthen disease surveillance, vector management, case detection, clinical management and public awareness.

Nadda noted that the incidence of dengue is currently low, with a very low mortality rate of 0.11 per cent. However, he cautioned to remain vigilant against the potential risk in coming months. He stressed upon preparedness, particularly in the forthcoming months.

–IANS

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