Himachal Pradesh Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhaniram Shandil reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to achieving the goal of a TB-Free India, stating that focused and mission-based implementation will be carried out to eliminate tuberculosis from the state.
The minister was addressing a state-level function organized on the occasion of World Tuberculosis Day 2026, marking the launch of the 100-Day TB-Free India Campaign (2.0).
He said that under the leadership of the Chief Minister, tuberculosis cases in the state have stabilized and are now showing a consistent decline, reflecting the department’s strong determination and effective grassroots-level implementation.
Strong Performance in First Phase
Dr. Shandil highlighted that during the first phase of the TB-Free India campaign launched in December 2024, Himachal Pradesh delivered outstanding performance by identifying and screening nearly 1.49 million vulnerable individuals, achieving 100 percent of the target. Among them, 46 percent underwent X-ray screening, which was considered among the best performances nationwide.
These achievements demonstrate the state’s success in active case detection, early diagnosis, and last-mile healthcare service delivery.
TB-Free Panchayat Initiative Shows Success
Under the TB-Free Gram Panchayat initiative, Himachal Pradesh recorded remarkable progress:
- 731 Gram Panchayats declared TB-free in 2023
- 823 Gram Panchayats in 2024
- 1,052 Gram Panchayats in 2025
Out of these, 233 Panchayats qualified for Silver Awards and 125 for Gold Awards, showcasing sustained public health efforts.
High-Risk Areas to Be Covered Under Campaign 2.0
The second phase of the campaign will cover 5,176 high-risk villages and urban wards across the state. Screening of vulnerable populations, including patients with chronic illnesses and residents of slum areas, will be conducted using AI-based handheld X-ray machines.
Mobile health units and Ayushman Arogya camps will also be organized to ensure wider outreach, with participation from MPs, MLAs, and Panchayati Raj representatives.
‘Eat Well, Live Well and Think Well’
Encouraging youth to adopt healthy lifestyles, the Health Minister urged them to follow the mantra “Eat Well, Live Well and Think Well.” He emphasized that balanced nutrition strengthens immunity and helps prevent multiple diseases.
Positive Approach Towards TB Patients
Shimla Urban MLA Harish Janartha appreciated the continuous efforts of the state government and health department in controlling TB cases. He urged people to maintain a positive attitude toward TB patients and support them in recovery while encouraging children to adopt healthy habits.
Officials Highlight Campaign Importance
NHM Mission Director Pradeep Thakur welcomed the chief guest and said the 100-day campaign is an integral part of national and state-level TB elimination strategies and will prove to be a milestone in disease prevention.
Deputy Mission Director Dr. Rajesh Guleri presented detailed data through a presentation, noting that Himachal conducts TB tests at nearly double the national average.
During the event, several corporate organizations were honored for their contribution to TB eradication efforts. TB Champions, including Krishna Devi and Santosh, were also felicitated.
Winners of Competitions Honored
Winners of various competitions organized under the campaign were awarded during the ceremony. Students from different schools and institutions received recognition in slogan writing, poster-making, reel-making, and quiz competitions, promoting awareness about tuberculosis prevention.
The event was attended by Director of Health Services Dr. Gopal Berry, Chief Medical Officer Shimla Dr. Yashpal Ranta, National Task Force Chairman Dr. Ashok Bhardwaj, and other dignitaries.
