Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma today chaired a meeting to review the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NTEP) in the Conference Hall of the DC Office Complex to assess the block-wise performance and ongoing interventions under the programme.
The meeting was attended by the Chief Medical Officer, District Tuberculosis Officer and District Programme Coordinator. BMOs of Bani, Basohli, Billawar, Hiranagar and Nagri Parole participated in the meeting virtually. At the outset, the Chief Medical Officer apprised the meeting about the current scenario of TB screening and treatment in the district.
It was informed that against the annual target of 21,450 presumptive TB tests, 29,733 tests have been conducted so far. The meeting was also informed that X-ray examinations have been carried out for 55 percent of the vulnerable population under the programme.
It was further given out that under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana, financial assistance amounting to Rs 4.25 Lakh has been transferred to the bank accounts of the TB patients. Giving further details, the District Tuberculosis Officer informed the Deputy Commissioner about the shortage of testing staff in several Block Medical Offices.
Taking note of the issue, the Deputy Commissioner directed the Chief Medical Officer to submit a detailed report on staff shortage so that the matter can be taken up with higher authorities for timely redressal. The Deputy Commissioner instructed the Block Medical Officers to mobilise their field staff and ensure measurable improvement in performance indicators, particularly in blocks showing lower outputs.
He further directed the BMOs of Hiranagar and Basohli to enhance X-ray examination data and streamline related diagnostic processes. Emphasising the need for sustained efforts to achieve TB elimination targets, the Deputy Commissioner called upon all BMOs to intensify efforts and improve their progress across key parameters of the NTEP.