State PCS - Haryana (HCS)

• 05 Apr 2025

Gram Panchayats Declared TB-Free in Haryana

Why in News?

The Health Department has declared sixty-six gram panchayats in Karnal district in Haryana tuberculosis (TB)-free based on six key indicators. 

Key Points

• Assessment and Awards:
  • A state-level team conducted an assessment in March 2025 to evaluate the panchayats.
  • Recognized panchayats were honored by the Additional Deputy Commissioner.
  • To receive TB-Free Gram Panchayat status, a panchayat must meet the required conditions for one year.
• Award Categories:
  • 14 panchayats received a silver statue of Mahatma Gandhi with an appreciation certificate for being recognized TB-free for the second time.
  • 52 panchayats were awarded a bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi and certificates for achieving TB-free status for the first time.
• Key Criteria for TB-Free Status:
  • Annual sputum sample collection: At least 30 samples per 1,000 population.
  • TB prevalence: Fewer than 1 TB patient per 1,000 people.
  • Treatment success rate: At least 85%.
  • Diagnostic testing: Minimum 60% of TB patients must undergo CBNAAT or TrueNAAT testing.
  • Financial aid distribution: 100% disbursal under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana.
  • Nutritional support: Provision of nutrition kits to all TB patients.
• Role of Nikshay Mitra Yojana:
  • Nikshay Mitra Yojana, launched under TB-Free India, allows citizens, NGOs, corporates, and public representatives to support TB patients.
  • Contributors (Nikshay Mitras) provide monthly nutrition kits to aid TB patients in their recovery.

Tuberculosis

• About:
  • Tuberculosis is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It can practically affect any organ of the body. The most common ones are lungs, pleura (lining around the lungs), lymph nodes, intestines, spine, and brain.
• Transmission:
  • It is an airborne infection that spreads through close contact with the infected, especially in densely populated spaces with poor ventilation.
• Symptoms:
  • Common symptoms of active lung TB are cough with sputum and blood at times, chest pains, weakness, weight loss, fever and night sweats.