Mobile CB-NAAT van flagged off on World TB Day for on-the-spot testing and immediate treatment
Patiala News (March 24): Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh today launched the state-level ‘TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ at the Padma Shri Dr. Khushdeva Singh Chest Diseases and TB Hospital, Patiala, on the occasion of World TB Day. On the occasion, he also flagged off a mobile CB-NAAT van to facilitate on-the-spot testing of suspected patients and ensure immediate initiation of treatment for those diagnosed with TB.
The Health Minister said that tuberculosis remains a serious public health challenge, with around 60,000 cases reported annually in Punjab, while many cases still go undetected. He urged people to actively participate in the campaign and come forward as ‘Ni-kshay Mitras’ to help eliminate TB and remove the stigma associated with the disease.
He informed that under the campaign, special screening will be conducted among the elderly, residents of slums, and other high-risk groups, with prompt treatment ensured for those in need. He appreciated the support of social organisations in making the campaign successful.
Dr. Balbir Singh highlighted that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is prioritising health, education, and employment. He said that the state has undertaken a unique initiative to provide nutritious food to 40 lakh families and is offering free treatment up to ₹10 lakh to 65 lakh families.
He added that Punjab is witnessing a health transformation, with new medical colleges being established and free medicines being provided through Aam Aadmi Clinics, making government hospitals a boon for the public.
On this occasion, Director Principal of Medical College Dr. R.P.S. Sibia, State TB Officer Dr. Rajesh Bhaskar, Deputy Medical Superintendent of TB Hospital Dr. Vishal Chopra, Civil Surgeon Dr. Jaswinder Singh, Jasbir Singh Gandhi, CPP Yogesh, Upkar Singh from Gyan Jyoti NGO, District TB Officer Dr. Gurpreet Nagra, Dr. Sumit Singh along with a large number of SMOs and medical officers were also present.
