Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 26 March 2025
The World Tuberculosis (TB) Day programme was observed at BJR Hospital, Car Nicobar, with a renewed commitment to eliminate tuberculosis through community participation and sustained efforts. The event, held in the hospital’s Conference Hall, brought together key stakeholders, including Mr. Amit Kale, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Nicobar District, and Mr. Lioneld Nicomed, Chief Captain of the Tribal Council, alongside Tribal Council members, Heads of Departments, medical staff, and community members.
This year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB – Commit, Invest, Deliver,” underscored the importance of united action in eliminating the preventable and treatable disease. The event commenced with the ceremonial lighting of a lamp by Mr. Kale and other dignitaries, symbolizing hope and resilience in the fight against TB.
In his address, Mr. Kale commended the relentless efforts of the District Tuberculosis Officer (DTO), National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) staff, and ground-level workers for their critical role in TB case detection and management. As a Nikshay Mitra himself, Mr. Kale encouraged attendees to volunteer as Nikshay Mitras to strengthen community-based support for TB patients.
Dr. Silvester Titus, Medical Officer, welcomed the gathering and highlighted the importance of continued awareness and collaborative action to eradicate TB. Acknowledging the contributions of frontline workers and volunteers, Certificates of Appreciation were awarded to three ASHAs, winners of an essay writing competition, and 25 Nikshay Mitras for their dedication to TB elimination efforts.
Dr. Anwar Moosa, District TB Officer for Nicobar, provided insights into the district’s progress through a detailed PowerPoint presentation, showcasing the achievements and ongoing initiatives aimed at combating TB.
Dr. Johnson Sameer, Medical Superintendent (i/c), BJR Hospital, reiterated the Government’s commitment to eliminating TB by 2025 and praised the community’s growing participation in this mission. He urged all participants to actively engage in the Nikshay Mitra initiative and contribute to sustaining the momentum in the fight against TB.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Ruth Christopher, Dental Surgeon at BJR Hospital, who expressed gratitude to the health workers, volunteers, and Government officials for their unwavering efforts in combating TB in the region.
With collective determination and community involvement, Car Nicobar continues to move closer to achieving its goal of a TB-free future. (Story Based on PR)