• Pitches for Panchayat-level action, Nikshay Poshan Yojana and Active Screening

POONCH: Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal, who also serves as Chairman of the District Health Society Poonch, today chaired a review meeting to review the progress achieved in the implementation of  Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (PMTBMBA) in the district.

Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr. Parvaiz Ahmed Khan presented a brief on the current status, strategies and action plan under implementation to combat TB in the district. The review emphasized a mission-mode approach to achieve the target of a TB-free Poonch.

The DC stressed the need to scale up active TB screenings, especially focusing on the 10 common TB symptoms, and prioritizing vulnerable populations for early identification and treatment. He called for intensified efforts at the Panchayat level, in line with the six key indicators of the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP).

He also issued strict directions to ensure timely disbursement of benefits under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana to meet the nutritional needs of patients during treatment. Further, he directed for the preparation of comprehensive Panchayat-level action plans, and the launch of a massive IEC campaign, including door-to-door awareness drives and the involvement of religious leaders, healthcare professionals, sportspersons, prominent citizens, self-help groups, and social organizations to reduce stigma associated with TB.

To ensure adherence to treatment, the use of daily SMS alerts and phone calls was encouraged so that patients do not miss their medication doses. The DC also directed enhancement in the distribution of nutritional food baskets under the PMTBMBA in the coming days. It was ordered that all eligible TB patients must receive the full spectrum of care and support throughout their treatment period.

Importantly, District Tuberculosis Officer Poonch, along with Block Medical Officers of Mandi, Mendhar and Surankote were instructed to adopt two TB patients each as Nikshay Mitras to provide nutritional and moral support.

Highlighting inter-departmental cooperation, the DC assured financial support from the Red Cross Society for the nutritional needs of TB patients. He further directed the Chief Medical Officer to deploy Mobile Medical Units (MMUs) village-wise for screening of vulnerable groups.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to work collaboratively and decisively towards the elimination of tuberculosis from District Poonch under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.

The meeting was attended by ADDC Pankaj Mangotra, CMO, Medical Superintendent District Hospital Poonch, District Tuberculosis Officer, all Sector Medical Officers of PHCs, DACs, BACs, DPMU, BPMU, STS and STLS.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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