Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla Calls for Collective Effort to Achieve TB-Free Telangana

Telangana Governor and President of the Telangana Tuberculosis Association, Shiv Pratap Shukla, has called for coordinated efforts from government departments, healthcare workers, NGOs, corporate organizations, and the public to achieve the goal of a TB-free Telangana. Speaking at the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan review meeting held at Lok Bhavan in Hyderabad, the Governor emphasized that Telangana must play a crucial role in realizing the vision of a TB-free India. He reviewed the state's progress in tuberculosis detection, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, nutritional support, and public participation initiatives.

Officials informed the Governor that Telangana currently has 171 TB units, 435 diagnostic centers, 191 rapid molecular testing centers, and 52 portable handheld X-ray devices. During a recent 100-day special campaign, more than 3.87 lakh high-risk individuals were screened, 1.68 lakh X-ray examinations were conducted, and 7,663 new TB patients were identified and linked to treatment. The Governor noted that around 28,000 TB patients are currently undergoing treatment in the state and stressed the need for greater awareness, especially in tribal and remote areas. He urged NGOs and community organizations to strengthen awareness campaigns and ensure that patients complete the full six-month treatment course to prevent the spread of the disease.