Agra – A district health committee meeting was held on Wednesday at the Vikas Bhawan under the chairmanship of Chief Development Officer Pratibha Singh. Representatives from 11 departments, including the Health Department, attended the meeting. During the session, the CDO directed all department representatives to adopt TB patients and also appealed to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to participate in the initiative.
On this occasion, the CDO personally adopted ten female TB patients and provided them with nutrition kits. The CDO emphasized that this initiative would offer patients emotional and psychological support, encouraging them to complete their treatment on time.
Youth to Play a Key Role
The meeting also discussed the involvement of youth in the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP). Chief Medical Officer Dr. Arun Srivastava stated that under the National Service Scheme (NSS) and with the support of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, young volunteers will be appointed as ‘Niksay Mitras’. These volunteers will adopt TB patients, provide emotional support, guide them in taking medications properly, and actively participate in awareness campaigns.
Awareness and Nutrition Support
District TB Officer Dr. Sukesh Gupta highlighted that Niksay Mitras will raise awareness among TB patients and the general public through infographics, survivor stories, and myth-busting messages. ‘Niksay Oath’ ceremonies will be conducted on NSS Day, International Youth Day, and other key events. All youth volunteers will coordinate with the TB cell for effective implementation of the program.
The DTO mentioned that orientation sessions will be conducted to motivate young volunteers to support TB elimination. He also advised that anyone experiencing persistent cough for more than two weeks, fever, night sweats, coughing up blood, chest pain, shortness of breath, weight loss, fatigue, swelling in the neck, or other TB-related symptoms should visit the nearest health center or a TB screening camp. TB testing and treatment are free under government programs, and under the Nutrition Support Scheme, patients receive ₹1,000 per month until recovery.
Patient Testimonial
13-year-old Khushi Gautam from Agra shared that the CDO personally provided her with a nutrition kit and guided her on treatment adherence. The CDO stressed the importance of wearing a mask and taking nutritious meals to prevent infection spread and ensure full recovery.
The event saw active participation from the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program team, Deputy DTO Dr. S.K. Rahul, Medical Officer-in-Charge, Superintendent, and representatives from all participating departments.
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