NCC cadets, MY Bharat volunteers and students participate in district-level launch at K-IIT College of Engineering
Gurugram : As part of the Government of India’s TB-Free India Campaign, the first phase of JOSH (Joint Teams for Health) teams was formally launched at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, by Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Jagat Prakash Nadda.
Following the national launch, the Gurugram Health Department, in collaboration with the GLRA NGO, organised a district-level launch programme at K-IIT College of Engineering, Bhondsi, to strengthen community participation in the fight against tuberculosis.
The programme was attended by NCC cadets, MY Bharat volunteers and college students, who registered themselves as volunteers on the TB-Free India App. Participants were also sensitised about the symptoms of TB, preventive measures, timely testing and treatment.
Community Participation Crucial for TB Elimination
Dr Kritika Bansal, World Health Organization (WHO) Advisor, explained the key aspects of TB identification, prevention and control. She highlighted the importance of active community participation in achieving TB elimination and urged young people and volunteers to spread awareness about the disease and encourage patients to undergo timely testing and treatment.
Dr Ranjana Malhotra, Deputy Civil Surgeon (TB), said that individuals experiencing persistent cough, fever, weight loss or other TB-related symptoms should undergo testing at the nearest health centre without delay.
She emphasised that timely diagnosis and treatment can lead to effective treatment of TB, and urged people not to ignore symptoms.
Certificates Presented to Nikshay Mitras
During the programme, representatives of Nikshay Mitra M3M Foundation and Philips Private Limited were presented certificates in recognition of their support and contribution.
District PPM Coordinator Poonam administered the TB-Free India pledge to all participants, reaffirming their commitment to spreading awareness and supporting efforts towards a TB-free India.
Officials and Representatives Attend
Those present at the programme included Prof. S.S. Aggarwal, Director General, K-IIT College; Prof. Indira Dhul, Director (Education); District Programme Coordinator Manisha; Gaurav from GLRA; and TB Health Visitor Rajpal, besides other officials, volunteers, NCC cadets and students.