World TB Day
Our Bureau
SHILLONG/JOWAI, March 24: An indigenous machine capable of detecting tuberculosis (TB) in asymptomatic patients is transforming early diagnosis in Meghalaya. As part of the 100-day TB-free India campaign, the technology is being used to transport sputum samples from remote villages to testing labs, ensuring faster and more accurate detection. This was informed by Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh during the World TB Day programme organised at U Soso Tham Auditorium, Shillong, on Monday.
Lyngdoh, who served as the chief guest of the programme, also emphasised the crucial role of traditional healers in bridging healthcare gaps.
The 100-day TB Elimination Campaign is implemented in five districts — East Khasi Hills, Ri-Bhoi, East Garo Hills, West Garo Hills and South Garo Hills.
“We have 3,500 traditional healers in Meghalaya, of whom 1,227 are registered with us. These healers, who account for nearly 36% of all treatments in the state, can act as catalysts in TB elimination, from screening to ensuring patients receive treatment,” Lyngdoh said.
The minister also stressed the importance of targeted investments to reach vulnerable individuals undergoing TB treatment. “If we can invest correctly, we can effectively reach those at risk and ensure they receive the necessary care,” she added.
Guest of honour JS Monim lauded the initiative, highlighting the significant impact of community-driven efforts in combating TB.
The 100-day campaign has helped identify 823 TB cases and over 600 villagers declared TB-free under the initiative.
In Jowai, the office of the District Tuberculosis Control, West Jaintia Hills, observed the day at District Library Mynthong, Jowai, under the theme, “Yes, We Can End TB: Commit, Invest Deliver”.
Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) DV Lyngdoh was the chief guest of the programme.
Speaking at the event, ADC Lyngdoh highlighted the importance of early detection and awareness in the fight against tuberculosis, while emphasising that while TB is both preventable and curable, timely diagnosis and proper treatment are essential to control the spread.
Lyngdoh also urged the community, healthcare workers and educational institutions to work together in spreading awareness about TB.
Nodal officer, National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), East Jaintia Hills, Dr L Marbaniang, spoke about the symptoms and stressed the importance of early diagnosis in controlling the disease.
The office of the District Tuberculosis honoured the health workers of both West and East Jaintia Hills for their dedication and contribution to TB prevention, diagnosis, treatment and for creating awareness.
The awards for the Best Treatment Supporter were conferred on Baita Lapasam from Barato PHC and Deciple Pychiang from Sutnga CHC.
Margeet Lyngdoh from Dawki PHC and Wanrika Sutnga from Khliehriat Civil Hospital were picked for the Best Lab Technician award.
The Best performing ASHA was awarded Jenitris Laamre from Barato PHC, Amalia Lakiang of Loomkyrwiang UHC, and Kimeri Bareh of Jalaphet HWC, Sutnga CHC.
The Best MLHP (Mid Level Healthcare Provider) was awarded to Darihun Kahrjahrim of Barato PHC and Sumarlin Laloo, of Iongkaluh, HWC, Pamrapaithlu PHC.
As part of the event, the District Tuberculosis centre, Jowai, organised a drawing competition on the event’s theme. Sanly Chyrmang from the Children’s Home Girls, Jowai, won the first prize, while the second prize was jointly awarded to Sanwaka Challam from Children’s Home, Jowai, and Nangbah Nangjngi from Children’s Home, Jowai. The third prize was jointly awarded to Resolve Dhar from Chilliangraij SSA School, Jowai, and Ibakordor Hadia, Dulong SSA UP School.
Best Placard was awarded to Loompyrdi Iongpiah, UPS, followed by first and second prize winners Pohmusniag UP School and Dulong SSA UP School respectively.
A rally was also organised as part of the World TB day to raise awareness about the disease, which was flagged off at Dulong playground, Jowai, and culminated at District Library Mynthong, Jowai. Students marched with banners and placards alongside teachers, doctors and healthcare workers.