Inter‑Ministerial Push for a TB‑Free India
On 7 July 2026, Union Health Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda chaired a high‑level meeting with the Union Ministers of Youth Affairs & Sports, Labour & Employment and Defence. The purpose was to deepen coordination among ministries and use the energy of India’s youth to speed up the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan. The meeting emphasized a whole‑of‑government and whole‑of‑society approach.
Key Developments
- Ministries were asked to expand the role of MY Bharat volunteers and NCC cadets in TB screening and awareness.
- Defence personnel will support community rallies, nutrition drives and integrate TB awareness into training camps and national events.
- Labour & Employment will promote TB‑free workplaces, especially in high‑risk sectors like mining, construction and textiles.
- The Pratibha Setu officers may be posted to District TB Coordination Committees to improve planning and monitoring.
- Medical colleges and the large pool of undergraduate and postgraduate medical students will be mobilised for active case finding.
Important Facts Since Launch
- More than 28 crore vulnerable individuals have been screened for TB.
- Over 39 lakh TB patients have been notified, including 12.93 lakh asymptomatic cases detected through chest X‑rays.
- About 5.7 lakh Ni‑kshay Mitras have been registered, distributing 38.9 lakh nutrition baskets.
- More than 20 lakh patients have received individualized, differentiated care.
Exam Relevance
The initiative touches on several GS papers. Understanding the