Imphal: Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla reviewed the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) on August 6 at Raj Bhavan, Imphal, and launched the Nikshay Mitra Manipur portal on Thursday.
Top officials, including Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel and Commissioner Sumant Singh, attended the high-level meeting aimed at accelerating efforts towards a TB-free state.
During a comprehensive presentation, Commissioner-cum-Secretary Sumant Singh outlined the progress of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan in Manipur. He spoke about the programme’s focus on district-led coordination, active case finding, preventive treatment, nutritional support, community participation, and regular monitoring.
He informed that the state has recorded significant expansion in TB screening and diagnostic services, with improvements in vulnerable population screening, X-ray examinations, NAAT testing, and treatment completion.
He also informed about the procurement of AI-enabled handheld X-ray devices to facilitate rapid TB screening, particularly in remote and difficult-to-reach areas.
Speaking about the roadmap ahead, Sumant Singh said the programme will focus on strengthening district-led implementation through regular reviews, expanding active case finding and preventive treatment, and mobilising more Nikshay Mitras and CSR partners to provide nutritional support.
He added that the programme will also focus on integrating TB screening with other public health programmes, leveraging technology for improved diagnosis and monitoring, and enhancing community participation to accelerate Manipur’s journey towards a TB-free state.
After reviewing the progress of the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) and the implementation of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan in the state, the Governor appreciated the efforts of the Health Department and other stakeholders.
He directed officials to sustain the momentum through effective implementation, regular monitoring, and close inter-departmental coordination while strengthening early detection, treatment, and community participation.