Baharagora MLA Kunal Sarangi launched a first-of-its-kind micro plan as part of his efforts for a TB-free Baharagora constituency on Friday. The launch event was organised by REACH in collaboration with the District TB Cell, East Singhbhum district.
Speaking at the meeting Sarangi said, “A lot of social stigma is still associated with TB. While the disease can be cured through proper medical treatment, the stigma can be eliminated only by spreading awareness about TB. The lack of awareness is still hindering the programmes that aim to eliminate TB.”
“If each of us start with our families and ensure that the members of our household are TB-free, then we can realise the dream of a TB-Free Baharagora,” the MLA added.
The micro plan for TB-Free Baharagora will be implemented at all Health Sub Centers (HSCs) of Baharagora, Chakulia and Gohdabandha. Sahiyas will play an important role and lead the outreach activities.
Dr.Prabhakar Kumar Bhagat, DTO, East Singhbum, said, “The programme will be implemented through the next one year and three HSCs will be covered in a month. Awareness drives will be conducted in villages and people with TB symptoms will be tested at the nearest DMC.”
“The Role of a Sahiya is immense in the health system. They are the link between the health system and the community. Our TB-free Bahragora mission will be successful only with their contribution,” Dr. Maheshwar Prasad, DMO, East Singhbhum, said.
Earlier, in March this year, more than 45 members of Panchayati Raj Institutions from Baharagora and Chakulia blocks participated in a stakeholders’ consultation led by Sarangi to understand the roles and responsibilities they need to shoulder to make the constituency TB-Free.
Sarangi had officially launched the TB-Free Baharagoracampaign on World TB Day, on March 24.He has since has been leading inter-departmental meetings of line departments for Baharagora’s efforts to be TB-Free.
Dr. R. Yeole, RNTCP WHO Consultant; Dr. O.P. Choudhry MOIC Baharagora, Dr. S.S. Mahto MOIC Chakulai, Shiv Charan Hansda, Member, Zila Parishad, Arjun Purthy, Member, Zila Parishad, Revti Nayak, Mukhiya, also attended the meeting.