The District Task Force for Immunization (DTFI) and District Level TB Mukt Bharat Committee meetings were held in Kohima on September 9, 2026, to review the progress of immunization, child health, HIV/AIDS awareness and tuberculosis (TB) control activities, besides strengthening coordination among stakeholder departments and community-level functionaries. The meeting, held at DC Office, Kohima, was chaired by Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem, NCS.
During the DTFI meeting, DPO- RMCAH+N Kohima, Dr. Khrievilhou Nakhro updated the members on immunization activities. He appreciated the support extended by teachers, school staff and Anganwadi workers in facilitating immunization activities. He informed that awareness programmes have been conducted in schools, with vaccination undertaken with the consent of parents and teachers.
The meeting also discussed collaboration with the National Cadet Corps (NCC), which sought support from stakeholder departments for conducting immunization-related activities during NCC camps.
An update on the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) was also presented, covering its key focus areas, manpower, implementation mechanism and cases referred for further treatment. Regarding schools proposed to be covered under the programme, DC Buchem directed the RBSK team to coordinate with the District Education Officer (DEO), Kohima, for necessary facilitation.
On child mortality, Dr. Avonu Sophie presented two child death cases, including cases involving congenital heart disease and septicaemia leading to septic shock. The presentation provided an opportunity to review the circumstances and clinical factors associated with the cases.
Sentimongla Tsudir presented an update on DISHA, focusing on HIV/AIDS awareness and mobilisation activities under the Intensified IEC Campaign 2026. She informed that 21 villages have been identified for awareness meetings and door-to-door visits, while 70 schools have also been identified for awareness activities in Kohima.
Meanwhile, the District Level TB Mukt Bharat Committee reviewed ongoing efforts towards TB elimination in Kohima district. District TB Officer Dr. Chibenthung Kithan informed that guidelines were issued on TB elimination during the Pragati meeting and briefed the members on the constitution of the District TB Mukt Bharat Committee.
He informed that one officer, particularly the Block Development Officer (BDO), has been designated in the blocks of Kohima district to facilitate coordination of TB-related activities. He also proposed forming volunteer teams in collaboration with NCC and MY Bharat Kohima. Members suggested that volunteers be provided certification and orientation programmes, along with technical knowledge and proper guidance.
The meeting also discussed the need for a joint account for TB Mukt Bharat, with its operation requiring the approval of the Deputy Commissioner. The Deputy Commissioner suggested that the District TB Officer provide a QR code for the joint account and circulate it widely to facilitate contributions.
On the adoption of TB patients, Dr. Chibenthung informed that 342 TB patients are currently registered in Kohima, with around 100 patients having received donor support so far. He further informed that AI-enabled X-ray machines from the Centre have been provided to strengthen TB detection and screening. However, he pointed out that inadequate availability of trained technicians remains a challenge in fully utilising the machines.
(DPRO Kohima)
