Gujarat’s Gir Somnath district is setting new benchmarks in India’s battle against tuberculosis through the innovative ‘Bhagirath Abhiyan’. Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to action, the campaign under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel integrates grassroots efforts with advanced healthcare delivery.
Teams of health workers and ASHA activists are tirelessly screening communities in urban centers, rural villages, and jungle-adjacent regions via the ongoing Active Case Finding initiative. This comprehensive outreach has mobilized an army of caregivers committed to early detection.
Residents like Ashwin Bhai Jhala appreciate the supportive ‘Swasthya Sahay Yojana’, allowing bill submissions for assistance. The program encourages public figures to become ‘Nikshay Mitrs’, adopting patients for treatment, fostering a culture of collective responsibility.
Jagubhai Mori emphasized the scheme’s reach to society’s fringes, thanking the government profusely. The involvement of NGOs, business leaders, and private facilities has amplified impact, with ‘Nikshay Mitrs’ providing nutrition relief kits alongside standard care.
Mandal Bhai Rawalia, a dedicated volunteer, observed visible improvements in patients after treatment, enhanced by nutritional support. Dr. Sheetal Ram, the District TB Officer, detailed the logistical backbone: funds disbursed via the Collector to talukas ensure free diagnostics.
Infrastructure boosts include tripling testing machines to six, strategically placed across talukas through District Mineral Foundation grants. This eliminates the Rs 1,500 per test barrier, making detection swift and cost-free.
Gir Somnath’s triumph reflects a blueprint for success—decisive policy, empowered locals, and societal synergy. In the quest for ‘TB Harega, Bharat Jeetega’, this district exemplifies how targeted interventions can eradicate a persistent public health threat.