KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, Mar 29: In a significant step towards strengthening the fight against tuberculosis, the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences on Sunday organised an orientation programme for postgraduate residents to sensitise them on the growing challenges posed by tuberculosis and their pivotal role in its elimination.
The programme, held on the occasion of World Tuberculosis Day, was aimed at enhancing awareness, sharpening clinical understanding, and encouraging young doctors to actively contribute to tuberculosis control efforts. The initiative formed part of the ongoing 100 Days Intensified TB Elimination Campaign, a focused drive to accelerate the detection, treatment, and prevention of tuberculosis across the country.
The campaign was formally inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and seeks to intensify efforts in identifying undiagnosed cases, ensuring timely treatment, and implementing preventive strategies, particularly among high-risk and vulnerable populations. The campaign aligns with India’s ambitious goal of eliminating tuberculosis in the near future.
The orientation programme commenced with an inaugural session highlighting the importance of sustained awareness and collective action against tuberculosis, which continues to remain a major public health concern. Speakers emphasised that despite medical advancements, TB control requires continuous vigilance, early diagnosis, and strict adherence to treatment protocols.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from postgraduate residents, senior faculty members, and healthcare professionals from multiple disciplines, reflecting a comprehensive and coordinated approach to tackling the disease. Experts stressed that young medical professionals, especially postgraduate residents, are at the forefront of healthcare delivery and play a crucial role in strengthening TB surveillance systems, improving early detection rates, and ensuring patient compliance with treatment regimens.
During the sessions, participants were sensitised about updated clinical practices, diagnostic protocols, and patient-centric care models under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP). Discussions also focused on addressing challenges such as drug-resistant TB, stigma associated with the disease, and the need for community outreach.
Senior officials present on the occasion included the Director SKIMS and EOSG, Dean Medical Faculty, Head of the Department of General Medicine, Nodal Officer NTEP (Clinical Side), and Medical Superintendent, along with other senior faculty members. They collectively underscored the importance of capacity building among young doctors to achieve tangible progress in TB elimination.
The programme concluded with a renewed commitment from the participants to actively contribute to the mission of a TB-free society through dedicated clinical practice, awareness generation, and community engagement.
