World Tuberculosis Day was observed in Noklak district on March 24 under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP). The event was held at the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) office Conference hall, organised by the District Programme Management Unit, Noklak under  Medical Department under the theme “Yes! We can end TB”.

During the event, Jejeking village and New Peshu village were awarded TB Free villages. Special guest, Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Civil, Noklak, Vikhoto Richa, in his address informed that the target set by the United Nations (UN) is to eliminate Tuberculosis (TB) by 2030. He emphasized the need for a collective vision within the district to work closely with the medical department in achieving this goal.

Highlighting that Noklak has been functioning as a district for the past five years, he acknowledged the challenges faced in the medical sector. However, he stressed that these challenges can be overcome through active community participation at the grassroots level. Richa underscored the importance of education, awareness, and involvement at the village level, adding that the District Administration remains committed to supporting the medical department in all possible ways.

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Medical Officer (MO), Noklak, Dr. Liang Lam, also spoke on the occasion and briefed the gathering about TB. Although many people may carry TB bacteria, the medical expert explained, the disease develops when a person’s immunity becomes weak where TB primarily affects the lungs. He also  outlined common symptoms, including persistent coughing (especially with blood), night sweats, fever, and weight loss. He also informed that free treatment for TB is available at district hospitals, with a standard treatment duration of six months. Additionally, the government provides an incentive of Rs. 1,000 to support patients during treatment.

As part of the World TB day, the 100 days campaign commemorating World Tuberculosis Day -JAN-JAN KA RAKHE DHYAAN TB-MUKT BHARAT ABHIYAN- was launched which will begin from April 1 covering the villages under Noklak district.

Earlier, the program was chaired by Russel Kikon STS (NTEP). The event was attended by ASHA health workers and staff.