Kangpokpi Observes 44th World TB Day with a Renewed Commitment to End Tuberculosis

The 44th World TB Day was observed with great determination in Kangpokpi under the theme "Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver." With a resounding message and pledge that "TB can be defeated—but only if we commit, invest, and deliver. The time to act is now," the event called for collective action to eliminate the world’s deadliest infectious disease.

The event was graced by Manoj Prabhakar, IPS, SP Kangpokpi, as the Chief Guest, alongside Shokhongam Baite, MCS, Additional Deputy Magistrate, Kangpokpi, and James Doujapao Haokip, MCS, Chief Executive Officer, SHADC Kangpokpi, as Guests of Honour. Dr. Paokai Kipgen, Chief Medical Officer/DMD, District Health Society Kangpokpi, presided as the Functional President, while Paotinsei Kipgen, MCS, SDO Saitu-Gamphazol, was also in attendance.

One of the most impactful moments of the observance was the distribution of food baskets to TB patients from various parts of the district, reinforcing the community’s commitment to supporting those affected. A powerful appeal was also made to eliminate TB from the district, aligning with India’s goal of ending TB by 2025.

Addressing the gathering, SP Kangpokpi, Manoj Prabhakar, IPS, made a strong appeal to civil society organizations and well-off individuals to step forward in sponsoring TB patients, ensuring they receive proper treatment and support. He emphasized that community-driven initiatives are crucial in eliminating TB not just in Kangpokpi but across the country.

Similarly, Additional Deputy Magistrate, Shokhongam Baite, reaffirmed the pledge taken by district officials to eliminate TB from Kangpokpi. He urged the public to actively participate in this fight, stressing that a TB-free Kangpokpi is possible through collective responsibility.

James Doujapao Haokip, MCS, Chief Executive Officer, SHADC Kangpokpi, stated that with a renewed commitment from district authorities, healthcare professionals, and community members, Kangpokpi has taken a significant step in the battle against tuberculosis. However, the road ahead requires sustained action, financial investment, and strong community engagement to turn pledges into reality.

In a remarkable show of solidarity, the Deputy Commissioner, Additional District Magistrate, and SDOs, alongside the Superintendent of Police (SP), have stepped forward under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, personally sponsoring 9 and 20 TB patients, respectively. Their generosity not only aids in better treatment outcomes but also fosters an inclusive, stigma-free society for TB patients.

Dr. Len Kamkhosat Khongsai, DTO, NTEP Kangpokpi, stated that TB remains the leading cause of death among people with HIV and a significant contributor to antimicrobial resistance. He emphasized that the commitments made by world leaders at the 2023 UN High-Level Meeting on TB must now translate into concrete action—strengthening national strategies, ensuring full funding, and rapidly implementing WHO-recommended interventions.

He continued by stating that a well-funded TB response is critical to eliminating the disease, and the fight against TB requires bold, decisive action beyond just financial investments.

In line with the global call to action, the Kangpokpi District launched a 100-day TB campaign (December 7, 2024 – March 20, 2025), demonstrating grassroots leadership and unwavering dedication.

During the campaign, 5,254 vulnerable individuals were screened for TB, out of which 320 suspected TB cases were tested, and 41 confirmed TB patients were notified, with 35 receiving food baskets as part of a comprehensive support system.

Currently, 68 patients are undergoing treatment, reflecting the district’s aggressive approach to tackling the disease, while 167 TB patients received full benefit payouts under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana.

Despite the absence of dedicated NTEP staff, the campaign thrived thanks to grassroots health workers—ASHA workers, auxiliary nurses, medical officers, and district leadership. Their efforts exemplify the power of community-driven healthcare in the battle against TB, stated Dr. Len Kamkhosat Khongsai.

To accelerate progress in ending TB, he urged the public to educate themselves about TB’s causes, symptoms, and prevention, and to break the stigma by supporting those affected by TB and countering misinformation.

He appealed to health workers to integrate TB screening, diagnosis, and treatment into routine healthcare services and to provide stigma-free, human rights-based care to all TB patients.

He also appealed to governments and public health leaders to increase funding for TB prevention and treatment programs and ensure universal access to WHO-recommended TB services.

Additionally, he urged community leaders to advocate for affordable, accessible TB treatment at the community level and foster stigma-free environments, ensuring no patient suffers discrimination. At the same time, he called on youth to support TB-affected individuals by providing resources and raising awareness in their communities.

The battle against TB is far from over. However, the Kangpokpi District’s success story proves that with strong leadership, adequate investment, and decisive action, ending TB is within reach. Sustained efforts, accountability, and global solidarity are essential, stated Dr. Len Kamkhosat Khongsai.