Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 28 July 2025
In a significant step towards eradicating tuberculosis and promoting lung health, the District Administration of South Andaman has launched a series of General and Lung Health Awareness-cum-Screening Camps under the Government of India’s flagship TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (TMBMA).
The initiative, being conducted through the District Health Society in coordination with the Directorate of Health Services, ICMR-RMRC, and the Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council, aims to raise awareness about tuberculosis (TB), identify early symptoms among vulnerable populations, and connect citizens with essential health services.
The first camp was recently organized at the Community Hall in Prothrapur, covering Ward Nos. 19 and 23. A total of 55 residents participated in the camp, where they received a range of medical services, including:
– Chest X-rays using advanced hand-held X-ray machines provided by ICMR-RMRC,
– General health check-ups, including blood pressure and blood sugar testing,
– Screening for TB symptoms by doctors from the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP).
In addition to screening services, Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) IDs and Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) e-Cards were also generated for eligible participants, ensuring access to digital health records and free healthcare benefits.
Demonstrating strong community involvement, Ms. Radhika, Councillor of Ward No. 23, and Mr. R. Vetrivelu, Councillor of Ward No. 19, not only attended the camp but also underwent Chest X-ray screening themselves—encouraging greater public participation and exemplifying the spirit of Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation).
The District Administration has urged the public to actively take part in the upcoming screening camps and make use of the comprehensive health services available. Officials emphasized that early detection and timely treatment are key to defeating tuberculosis.
The schedule for the remaining camps across other wards has been circulated and can be obtained from the respective Health & Wellness Centres and Urban Local Bodies.
