The World Tuberculosis Day cum DAPCC and Vertical Programs Meeting under the theme "Yes, We Can End TB! Commit, Invest, Deliver" was observed at CMO conference hall, Dimapur on March 24th 2025.
Speaking as the special guest, Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Dr. Tinojungshi Chang, NCS, reaffirmed the government's commitment to eradicating Tuberculosis (TB) in the region. He emphasized that the government stands ready to support efforts in combating the disease and highlighted the role of 19 villages as key touch points in extending TB awareness and prevention measures to other communities.
Dr. Chang stressed that TB can be eliminated with collective efforts at the grassroots level. He urged the Village Development Boards (VDBs) and Village Councils to actively participate in the fight against TB by ensuring awareness, early detection, and access to treatment. The government provides free medicines and financial support for TB patients, he stated, encouraging local leaders to take advantage of these resources to strengthen the healthcare response in rural areas. With increased collaboration between government agencies and community leaders, the initiative aims to bring TB under control, ensuring better health outcomes for all, he added.
Chief Medical Officer of Dimapur, Dr. T. Temsu Lkr, emphasizing the need for continued investment and commitment to eradicating TB, urged the public to give support in every way possible and to cooperate with them to eliminate this disease and malaria.
The program commenced with a welcome address by Chief Medical Officer Chumukedima, Dr. Yartenla Jamir, followed by a felicitation ceremony recognizing TB Muk Panchayat (TB-free villages) Awards and the presentation of appreciation certificates to dedicated healthcare staff.
Presentations on vertical programs, including NTEP (National Tuberculosis Elimination Program), NVBDCP (National Vector Borne Disease Control Program), and DISHA, highlighted on-going efforts in disease prevention and control. A moving testimony from Monica, a TB champion, shed light on the challenges faced by TB patients and their journey toward recovery.
A special segment was dedicated to TB patients, allowing them to share their experiences in five-minute sessions. The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Orenthung from DIS DISHA, acknowledging the contributions of healthcare workers and stakeholders in the fight against tuberculosis. The programme was chaired by Dr. A. Kavito Zhimomi, DPO CD-1.
World Tuberculosis Day serves as a crucial reminder of the collective efforts needed to eliminate TB and improve public health. The event reinforced the commitment of Dimapur’s health authorities and community leaders to achieving a TB-free future.
(Limatoshi, IA Dimapur)
