JOSH initiative launched in Kargil to intensify TB detection and awareness

Kargil, October 8: The District TB Officer, Kargil, on Wednesday launched JOSH (Joint Squad for Health), a community-based initiative aimed at strengthening tuberculosis detection, awareness and treatment support in the district. The launch ceremony was held at the Syed Mehdi Memorial Auditorium Hall, Kargil, and was attended by Deputy Commissioner Kargil and senior health officials.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner said TB had earlier been associated with considerable social stigma, often discouraging people from coming forward for diagnosis and treatment. He stressed the need to replace stigma with awareness and community participation.

He said the JOSH initiative would complement the ongoing TB Mukt Abhiyan, with teams undertaking door-to-door screening and identification of suspected TB cases using modern technologies. More than 20,000 people have already been screened in identified villages, he said.

The DC said patients identified with TB would be provided financial and nutritional support, including food baskets for six months, to help strengthen their immunity during treatment.

He urged people to use the TB Mukt Bharat app and AI chatbot for information and assistance related to TB. He also called upon youth, health professionals and community members to act as ambassadors of the TB-free campaign and coordinate with health teams in spreading awareness and encouraging early diagnosis.

The programme began with a welcome address by District TB Officer Dr Fatima Nissa, followed by the administration of the TB pledge.

A presentation on tuberculosis was delivered by Dr Ghulam Hussain Bardi, while students of the GNM School presented a pantomime highlighting TB awareness. RAnThAG staged a nukkad natak to sensitise the public about TB symptoms, prevention and treatment.

Chief Medical Officer Kargil, Dr Fatima Banoo, also addressed the gathering and emphasised the importance of community participation in achieving a TB-free district.

A TB awareness video was released during the programme. The GNM School also presented a cultural dance and conducted a TB awareness activity.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Medical Officer Dr Bilquees Fatima.

Doctors, health workers and other contributors were felicitated for their efforts towards TB detection, treatment and awareness in the district.

Later, the officials flagged off a dedicated awareness van, which will carry the TB awareness campaign to different areas of the district.