By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 9: The state government has revealed that testing rates have significantly improved, and the incidence of tuberculosis (TB) has begun to stabilise in Meghalaya.
These developments were revealed during the state-wide launch of the 100-Day Campaign (Ni-Kshay Shivir) and the Meghalaya Comprehensive TB Care Guidelines, at Mawlai Mawroh PHC on Monday.
Addressing the gathering, Commissioner and Secretary to Health and Family Welfare department, Joram Beda, emphasised the critical need for a holistic TB treatment plan, noting the social impact of the disease.
He pointed out that factors such as malnutrition, poverty and poor living conditions, coupled with Meghalaya’s high dropout rates, high Total Fertility Rates (TFR) and widespread malnutrition, exacerbate TB challenges in the state.
Beda also highlighted that the incidence of tuberculosis has begun to stabilise in Meghalaya.
The government, he assured, remains committed to ensuring the availability of resources and facilities to combat and ultimately eliminate tuberculosis.
Meanwhile, Mission Director of the National Health Mission, Ram Kumar S, announced the state-wide rollout of the initiative, with a focused approach in five districts—West Garo Hills, Ri-Bhoi, East Garo Hills, South Garo Hills, and East Khasi Hills—where the TB burden is notably higher.
He disclosed that around 4,500 active TB patients are currently undergoing treatment across the state.
Highlighting the importance of early detection, Kumar urged the individuals with symptoms to seek testing without delay.
“The state’s focus extends beyond treatment to include equipping TB survivors with skills for economic self-reliance,” he said, highlighting the skilling programmes are facilitated by the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society.
On the occasion, the government also felicitated Ni-Kshay Mitras, including a young girl and TB survivors actively engaged in skill development training.
Similarly, Dr. Beda flagged off the Ni-Kshay Vahan vehicle, symbolising the government’s proactive outreach efforts.
