283 Panchayats declared TB-Free in district
BUDGAM, MARCH 24: On the occasion of World TB Day 2026, a grand function was organized at Sheikh-ul-Alam Hall, DC Office Budgam by the District Administration Budgam in collaboration with District Tuberculosis Centre (DTC) Budgam, marking a significant step towards the elimination of tuberculosis in the district.
The event, as per an official statement, also witnessed the formal launch of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan Phase-II (100 Days Campaign) under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan.
The programme commenced with the official launch of the campaign by the DC Budgam, aimed at intensifying efforts for early detection, effective treatment, and community awareness to eradicate tuberculosis.
On the occasion, an awareness rally was flagged off by the DC from the DC Office Budgam to the Old Bus Adda Budgam.
Students, youth and locals participated enthusiastically, spreading awareness messages on TB prevention, timely diagnosis, and adherence to treatment among the general public.
The event witnessed the participation of senior health officials and district officers, including the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Budgam, District Tuberculosis Officer (DTO), all Block Medical Officers (BMOs), Deputy CMO, District Immunization Officer (DIO), District Health Officer (DHO), Assistant Commissioner Panchayat, members of Panchayati Raj Institutions, and other concerned staff.
Addressing the gathering, the DC Budgam emphasised the importance of sustained community engagement, inter-departmental coordination, and grassroots-level participation in achieving the goal of a TB-free district.
He highlighted the significance of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan Phase-II and appreciated the dedicated efforts being carried out under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP).
Later, a felicitation ceremony recognizing the outstanding performance of Panchayats in TB elimination. A total of 283 Panchayats were declared TB-free and felicitated with Gold, Silver, and Bronze mementos along with Certificates of Appreciation. Among these, 100 Panchayats received Gold, 59 were awarded Silver, and 124 were conferred Bronze, showcasing remarkable achievements at the grassroots level in combating tuberculosis.
Speaking on the occasion, the DC Budgam lauded the proactive role and unwavering commitment of the Health Department Budgam and Panchayati Raj Institutions in achieving TB-free status across multiple Panchayats in the district.
The programme concluded with a collective pledge by all stakeholders to work in unison towards the elimination of tuberculosis and to realize the vision of a TB Mukt Bharat.
