Special Correspondent: Arun Sharma, East Delhi, Dilshad Garden

In a significant push towards eliminating tuberculosis (TB), a strong awareness initiative was witnessed in the Dilshad Garden area of East Delhi. As part of the national commitment to make India TB-free, extensive programs were organized on March 24 and 25, 2026, with active participation from medical experts and students.


Under the leadership of the Community Medicine Department of University College of Medical Sciences (UCMS), awareness programs were conducted at health training centers on the occasion of World TB Day (March 24). Continuing the initiative, a large awareness rally was organized on March 25 by MBBS students.


The rally was flagged off from the UCMS campus by Principal Prof. Dheeraj Sah. It passed through key areas of Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital (GTB Hospital), including the emergency compound, OPD block, MCH building, obstetrics and gynecology department, and main pharmacy, before concluding at the Chest Clinic.


Early Detection and Complete Treatment Are Key
Experts emphasized that TB is completely curable, provided it is diagnosed early and treatment is not discontinued midway.
Prof. Pragati Chhabra, Head of the Community Medicine Department, highlighted that the following symptoms should not be ignored:
Persistent cough for more than two weeks
Mild fever, especially in the evening
Night sweats
Chest pain and loss of appetite
Blood in sputum
Individuals experiencing such symptoms are advised to immediately visit the nearest health center for testing.


Breaking Myths and Social Stigma
Experts also addressed the widespread misconceptions surrounding TB. Prof. Aamir clarified that TB does not spread through touch or sharing utensils, but through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Instead of isolating patients, offering emotional support and care plays a crucial role in their recovery.


Government’s ‘Nikshay’ Scheme Provides Support
Dr. Somdatta informed that the government is committed to eradicating TB by providing free diagnosis (Sputum Test) and treatment (DOTS) at government hospitals.
Under the Nikshay Scheme:
Patients receive financial assistance
Nutritional support is provided
Citizens can contribute as ‘Nikshay Mitra’ to support TB patients


Incomplete Treatment Can Be Dangerous
One of the biggest challenges in TB control is patients discontinuing treatment midway. Experts warned that this can lead to Multi-Drug Resistant TB (MDR-TB), which is more complex and requires prolonged treatment.
“TB Will Lose, India Will Win”
Sociologist Santosh Rai, who coordinated the rally, said:
“‘TB Harega, Desh Jeetega’ is not just a slogan, but a national mission.”
He urged citizens to encourage anyone showing symptoms to undergo timely testing.


Strong Participation by Medical Community
The event saw the presence of Dr. Jitendra from the Chest Clinic, along with MBBS and MD students, Dr. Akanksha Agarwal, Dr. Shailja, Dr. Abhishek, and other healthcare staff.


This campaign reinforces that awareness, timely diagnosis, and complete treatment are the only effective ways to eliminate TB. With collective efforts from society and the healthcare system, India is steadily moving towards achieving the goal of a TB-free nation.