RAJOURI: To discuss an Action Plan to foster National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) in the district, Deputy Commissioner Rajouri Vikas Kundal chaired a meeting of District Tuberculosis Forum here today.

The NTEP, a pivotal component of the National Health Mission, spearheads India's efforts against Tuberculosis. The meeting shed light on the composition, objectives, and functioning of the TB Forum. The session delved into the achievements of the program within the district, spotlighting a range of services offered by the government under the NTEP.

The meeting was apprised that 15596 microscopy and 4379 molecular tests were done in the second quarter and 679 cases were notified till date. It was further informed that ninety percent achievement has been recorded under the Nikshay Poshan yojna scheme.

Addressing the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner underscored the urgency of eradicating Tuberculosis as it being a leading infectious disease leaves a very adverse impact on the people's lives, the economy and the future of the Nation. He called for making concerted efforts towards effective and successful implementation of the NTEP in the district.

A crucial highlight of the discussion was the emphasis on registering all TB patients under the Ni-kshay Mitras scheme. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive support to TB patients, encompassing nutritional aid, additional diagnostic assistance, and vocational support.

As the district intensifies its commitment to the NTEP, Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal urged all stakeholders to collaborate seamlessly, recognizing that a collective approach is paramount in the fight against Tuberculosis.

Among the others, the Chief Planning Officer, Mohammad Khurshid; District Tuberculosis Officer, Dr Khalid Mansoor and other officers and officials attended the meeting.