Special Correspondent: Arun Sharma

East Delhi: In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘TB-Free India’ by 2025, a significant awareness initiative was organized in East Delhi to strengthen the fight against tuberculosis.


The programme, conducted under the Respect Project of Humana People to People India, featured an impactful street play at Swami Dayanand Hospital, Dilshad Garden, focusing on tuberculosis and drug-resistant TB awareness.


Dr. Bindu Behl at the Forefront
District TB Officer Dr. Bindu Behl played a central role in the campaign, addressing attendees on the symptoms, early diagnosis, and importance of completing treatment.


She emphasized, “TB is completely curable if detected early and if patients adhere strictly to the full course of prescribed medication.”

Aligned with the Prime Minister’s Vision
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set an ambitious target to eliminate tuberculosis in India by 2025. Under the
National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), nationwide efforts are underway to strengthen early detection, free treatment, and community awareness.
The Delhi event reflects this broader national strategy of transforming healthcare initiatives into a people-driven movement.


Key Symptoms Highlighted
Through the street play and expert interaction, the public was informed that the following could be warning signs of TB:
Persistent cough for more than two weeks
Continuous fever
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent weakness
Dr. Behl reiterated that TB testing and medicines are provided free of cost by the government, urging citizens not to ignore symptoms and to visit the nearest health centre promptly.
Focus on Drug-Resistant TB
Special emphasis was placed on preventing drug-resistant TB. Experts warned that incomplete or irregular treatment can make the disease more severe and difficult to cure, underscoring the necessity of following medical advice without interruption.


Community Participation and Outreach
The programme saw participation from project leader Ramphool Sharma, Dr. P. Suresh, Sachin Gupta, and Respect Project members Krishna, Nagina, and Deepshikha, among others. Approximately 160 people attended the event.
Local residents and community representatives described the initiative as a meaningful step toward accelerating the TB-Free India campaign.


A Message Beyond Delhi
The awareness drive led by Dr. Bindu Behl demonstrates how coordinated efforts between healthcare authorities, social organizations, and citizens can transform a national mission into a grassroots movement.


The initiative from East Delhi not only strengthens the capital’s healthcare response but also reinforces India’s collective resolve to eliminate tuberculosis and build a healthier nation.