Asem Bhakta
Special Correspondent North East
New Delhi/Imphal: (Waari Singbul Network) In a moment of immense pride for Manipur, the state was bestowed with a Certificate of Appreciation by the Hon’ble Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, during the 44th World TB Day Celebration held today in New Delhi. This despite the unprecedented unrest gripping the border State since May 3, 2023. This prestigious recognition celebrates Manipur’s exemplary efforts in leveraging Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT), a cutting-edge diagnostic tool, to combat tuberculosis (TB) during the transformative 100 Days TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. The milestone underscores the state’s unwavering resolve to contribute to India’s ambitious goal of achieving a TB-free nation by 2025.
The award was received on behalf of Manipur by Madam Haobam Rosita (IAS), Special Secretary (Health & Family Welfare), Dr. Hemlata Thokchom, State TB Officer, and Dr. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh, Director of the State Training and Demonstration Centre/Intermediate Reference Laboratory, Manipur. Their leadership and dedication have propelled the state to the forefront of India’s TB elimination efforts, earning accolades from national health authorities.
Manipur’s achievement highlights its pivotal role in the 100 Days TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, a nationwide campaign launched on December 7, 2024, to accelerate TB detection and treatment. The state’s robust deployment of NAAT testing—a rapid and accurate method to diagnose TB, including drug-resistant strains—has significantly enhanced early detection, enabling timely treatment and breaking the chain of transmission. This technological leap, combined with grassroots efforts, has positioned Manipur as a model for other states in the fight against the disease.
Speaking on the occasion, Madam Haobam Rosita expressed gratitude and pride: “This recognition is a testament to the hard work of our healthcare workers, officials, and communities who have rallied together to make Manipur a leader in TB elimination. We are committed to sustaining this momentum until TB is eradicated from our state and our nation.” Dr. Hemlata Thokchom echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of NAAT testing: “By prioritizing advanced diagnostics, we’ve been able to reach vulnerable populations and ensure no case goes undetected. This award inspires us to do even more.”
The 100 Days TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, a cornerstone of the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP), has seen remarkable success nationwide, with over 7.19 lakh TB patients notified, including 2.85 lakh asymptomatic cases that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. Manipur’s contribution to this effort, particularly through its innovative use of NAAT technology, has been hailed as a game-changer. The state’s health infrastructure, bolstered by mobile testing units and community outreach, has ensured that even remote areas are not left behind in this critical mission.
The award also reflects the state’s broader commitment to public health, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a TB-Mukt Bharat, articulated at the 2018 End TB Summit.
The ceremony in New Delhi, attended by health dignitaries, state representatives, and TB champions, also saw Union Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda commend Manipur’s proactive approach. “Manipur’s outstanding contribution to NAAT testing during the 100 Days campaign is a shining example of how innovation and dedication can drive progress. This is a collective victory in our journey toward a TB-free India,” he remarked.
As Manipur basks in this well-deserved honor, the state’s health officials have vowed to build on this milestone. Plans are underway to expand diagnostic capabilities, enhance community awareness, and strengthen partnerships with local stakeholders. With this recognition fueling their resolve, Manipur stands poised to lead by example, inching closer to a future where tuberculosis is a thing of the past—not just for the state, but for the entire nation.
