Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 26 March 2024
The District Health Society, South Andaman, under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme, commemorated World TB Day on March 24, 2024, at the Auditorium of Govt. Tagore College, Port Blair. This year’s theme, ‘Yes, We Can End TB,’ echoed through the event which was organized in coordination with the Directorate of Health Services. Dr. P. Lal, State TB Officer/District TB Officer, South Andaman, and Mr. B. Nagendra, District Programme Manager, DHS (SA), graced the occasion. Cultural activities focusing on TB awareness were also part of the event.
During the gathering, the District TB Officer (SA) enlightened attendees about Tuberculosis and the preventive measures being undertaken by the Administration to eradicate TB from the Islands. The launch of a TB awareness video clip by the District TB Officer and an awareness song introduced by the District Programme Manager aimed to instigate community-level awareness, emphasising early screening of suspects and regular medication.
Leading up to World TB Day, an extensive awareness campaign swept through the South Andaman District, spearheaded by Mr. Arjun Sharma, IAS Deputy Commissioner (SA), and Chairman, District Health Society. Activities such as TB awareness jerseys worn by the District Administration Cricket Team, Walkathon Rallies, Quiz competitions, and displaying posters on Autorickshaws were deployed. Additionally, healthcare providers and TB suspects underwent screening, culminating in the World TB Day observance on March 24, 2024.
Acknowledging the invaluable support of individuals, volunteers, and NGOs in producing TB awareness video and audio clips, as well as their active participation in awareness activities, mementos and certificates were presented during the event. Ms. Sini, District Programme Coordinator, warmly welcomed the attendees, and the event concluded with a vote of thanks from the District Programme Manager.
The World TB Day observance in South Andaman not only shed light on the importance of TB eradication efforts but also highlighted the collective determination to combat this global health challenge.