World TB Day observed at Pulwama

Pulwama: An awareness programme was organised on Monday at the Circuit House Pulwama to mark the occasion of World Tuberculosis (TB) Day.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ruquaya Rasool Kapta, District Tuberculosis Officer Pulwama, emphasized the concerted efforts made towards TB elimination.
She highlighted that the roadmap for achieving TB-free status has been drafted in 2014 and since then, relentless efforts by the DTO Pulwama and Shopian have led to the reduction of mortality rate to less than 4% and drug defaulter rate to less than 2%, while treatment success rate has reached almost 90 %.
Additionally, she underscored the special focus given to TB patients from the private sector, ensuring comprehensive follow-up for up to two years post-treatment.
As part of the awareness drive, banners were displayed and informative posters and pamphlets were distributed to educate the public about TB prevention, treatment and elimination strategies.
During the event, silver and bronze statues of Mahatma Gandhi, along with certificates, were awarded to TB Mukht Panchayats, guests and speakers who played a pivotal role in TB awareness and control.
The programme saw the participation of Assistant Commissioner Panchayat Pulwama, Gul Afsha Nighat; alongside Chief Medical Officer Pulwama, Dr. Tehmeena and participants. Additionally Deputy CMO Pulwama; District Immunization Officer; Medical Superintendent, District Hospital Pulwama; District Health Officer Pulwama; Block Medical Officer Pulwama, Pampore, Rajpora & Tral also attended.
Besides officials from the Rural Development Department, health staff under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) and students from Sky Lark Paramedical Institute Pulwama were also present.