The Department of Health & Family Welfare, Nagaland, launched the 100-Day Intensified Campaign on TB Elimination (Ni-Kshay Shivir) on 7 December 2024, at Seikhazou, D. Khel Ground, Kohima. The initiative is part of India’s nationwide effort to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) by 2025, five years ahead of the global target set by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Health Minister P. Paiwang Konyak, in his keynote address, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to eliminating TB by 2025. He emphasized the need for collective action involving government agencies, NGOs, healthcare providers, and communities. The Minister assured that sufficient funding and resources would be allocated to support the campaign’s implementation and ensure its success.
Together we are in this fight. A mission of hope, health and empowerment. Launched state-level 100 Day Intensified campaign on TB Elimination (Ni-Kshay Shivir) pic.twitter.com/Fe0z0rT2uL
— P Paiwang Konyak (@princepaiwang) December 7, 2024
Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, MLA, emphasized the need for collective efforts in eradicating tuberculosis (TB). Speaking on the topic, he stated, “TB is a disease known to everyone. While it is commonly associated with the lungs, it can also affect other organs such as the skin, bones, brain, and intestines.” He highlighted that TB tests might show negative results, which could indicate a “latent” or “closed” infection rather than an absence of the disease, adding that skin tests are more practical in certain cases. Dr. Rhutso urged the public to actively participate in the campaign, emphasizing that public involvement is essential in alignment with democratic values. He also expressed his readiness to support the campaign to ensure its success.
Advisor, Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome reflected on the historical challenges of TB eradication, noting that despite efforts, previous targets and aims have often met with failure. He highlighted the ambitious nature of India’s 100-day TB Elimination Campaign and called on stakeholders to address ground realities and public policy gaps for its successful implementation.
Delivering the welcome address, Anoop Khinchi, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary of Health & Family Welfare, underscored the critical importance of addressing TB, which remains one of India’s biggest public health challenges. Nagaland reported 4,229 TB cases in 2023, with 3,018 new cases identified this year alone. The campaign aims to strengthen efforts in early detection, comprehensive treatment, and nutritional support for TB patients.
Dr. Akuo Sorhie, MD (NHM), highlighted the campaign’s focus on vulnerable groups, including high-risk populations such as household contacts of TB patients, individuals with HIV or diabetes, and the elderly. Advanced diagnostic tools like AI-based X-ray screenings and molecular testing will play a pivotal role in identifying cases early. The campaign also emphasizes nutritional support, with ₹1,000 per month provided to patients under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
The launch event featured the felicitation of Nikshay Mitras and TB Champions, along with the distribution of food baskets. The program concluded with the flag-off of the Ni-Kshay Vahan by Health Minister Paiwang Konyak, symbolizing the state’s intensified efforts to reach remote areas with diagnostic and treatment services. A host of MLAs and civil society leaders, officials and others attended the programme.
Running until March 2025, the campaign will focus on reducing stigma, raising awareness, and mobilizing communities to take an active role in fighting TB. With sustained efforts and collaborative participation, Nagaland moves closer to its vision of a TB-free state, ensuring improved health and dignity for all its citizens.
