India’s 100-Day TB-Free Campaign: PM Modi & Health Minister Nadda Herald Health Milestone
New Delhi, March 25, 2024 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Tuesday that India’s ambitious 100-Day Intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan has fortified the nation’s battle against tuberculosis, paving the way for a healthier future. The campaign, which concluded on March 24, achieved unprecedented strides in early detection, treatment, and community engagement across high-risk regions.
Key Achievements of the TB Elimination Drive
Launched on December 7, 2023, the initiative targeted 455 high-priority districts spanning 33 states and union territories. Its goals included accelerating TB case identification, reducing mortality rates, and curbing new infections. According to Union Health Minister JP Nadda, the results were transformative:
- 12.97 crore vulnerable individuals screened for TB symptoms.
- 7.19 lakh TB patients notified, including 2.85 lakh asymptomatic cases detected through advanced diagnostics.
- Over 13.46 lakh Nikshay Shivirs (testing camps) organized nationwide.
- 4.17 lakh individuals in high-risk settings (prisons, mines, construction sites) screened.
Grassroots Mobilization & Public Participation
The campaign thrived on Jan Bhagidari (public participation), with over 30,000 elected representatives, corporate leaders, and citizens joining the movement. Key highlights included:
- 21,000+ TB awareness drives during festivals, involving faith leaders and influencers.
- 1,05,181 new Nikshay Mitras enrolled to provide nutritional and financial aid to affected families.
- Collaborative efforts with local governments to ensure last-mile healthcare access.
PM Modi’s Vision for a TB-Free India
In a social media post, PM Modi praised the campaign’s success, stating, “This initiative has laid a robust foundation for a TB-free India, reflecting our commitment to health equity and sustainable development.” The Prime Minister’s Office underscored the campaign’s role in leveraging technology, community partnerships, and policy innovation.
Over 250 volunteers from all walks of life participated in the walkathon for World TB Day Awareness organised by Jipmer.
Next Steps: Scaling Nationwide Efforts
While celebrating the 100-day milestone, Health Minister Nadda emphasized that this is “just the beginning.” Plans are underway to:
- Expand diagnostic access and quality treatment nationwide.
- Strengthen surveillance in rural and tribal areas.
- Foster private-sector collaborations for TB care.
- Amplify awareness through digital platforms and grassroots networks.
Why This Matters
India accounts for 27% of global TB cases, making this campaign a critical step toward the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal of ending TB by 2030. By prioritizing early screening, patient-centric care, and community ownership, the initiative sets a blueprint for global health interventions.
Conclusion
The TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan exemplifies India’s proactive approach to public health challenges. With continued momentum and bipartisan support, the nation moves closer to turning the tide against tuberculosis—one of history’s deadliest diseases.