ADC Kargil Chairs Review Meeting of District Tuberculosis Forum, Stresses Community Participation and Awareness

Kargil, December 19, 2025: Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Kargil, Imteeaz Kacho today chaired a review meeting of the District Tuberculosis (TB) Forum to assess the progress of TB elimination initiatives in the district and to formulate strategies to realize the goal of “TB-Mukt Kargil.”

During the meeting, District Tuberculosis Officer Dr. Mohd Abbas highlighted that community participation and societal support remain crucial in eradicating tuberculosis. He emphasized that the primary objective is to spread awareness, remove fear among patients, and reinforce that TB is a fully curable disease if diagnosed and treated on time.

Dr. Abbas informed that Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are playing an active role in TB control efforts, significantly contributing to improved recovery rates in the district. Nearly 40 Panchayats across Kargil are currently engaged in TB elimination initiatives, ensuring better patient support and follow-up.

He also briefed the forum about the nutritional supplements, free medicines, and other essential assistance provided to TB patients over the past five years. While clarifying that TB is a contagious disease, Dr. Abbas stated that its transmission largely depends on an individual’s immunity, with strong immunity being key to prevention and recovery. He added that although public cooperation remains satisfactory, contact testing still poses challenges and must be handled with sensitivity and care.

Expressing his views, ADC Imteeaz Kacho stressed the vital role of media and communication platforms in spreading awareness about tuberculosis while ensuring strict confidentiality of patients. He urged the Department of Information & Public Relations and other communication channels to intensify awareness campaigns, reduce stigma, and strengthen public participation to support the elimination of TB from the district.

The meeting concluded with a call for greater coordination between health authorities, community institutions, and media stakeholders to accelerate progress toward a TB-free Kargil.