World Tuberculosis Day 2026 carrying the theme “Yes! We Can End TB” led by Bharat powered by Janbhagidari was today observed by the office of the District Tuberculosis Officer (DTO), Jaintia Hills at a programme held at Khliehriat West Community Hall, Khliehriat.
The programme was attended by Sutnga-Saipung MLA, Smti. Santa Mary Shylla in the presence ofDeputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri Manish Kumar, IAS, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Shri A. Nongbri, MCS, District Medical & Health Officer (DM&HO), East Jaintia Hill District, Dr D. Shylla, District Tuberculosis Officer (DTO), Jaintia Hills District, Dr. (Mrs.) P. Lamare, District Malaria Officer, East Jaintia Hills District, Dr S. Bareh, Block Development Officer, Wapung C&RD Block, Dr. T Shylla,Block Development Officer, Lumshnong C&RD Block, Shri. M. Kyndait, Medical & Health Officer, in-charge Sutnga CHC, Dr R. Toi, other health officials, traditional heads, students and people of the area.
Chief Guest of the programme, Sutnga-Saipung MLA, Smti. Santa Mary Shylla in her address highlighted that decades ago Tuberculosis (TB) was considered a deadly disease, however, with the advancement and availability of effective medicines, TB has now become a curable disease through timely intervention and strict adherence to medication.
She further stated that the government has ensured the provision of free medicines for TB patients across all levels of healthcare, including Sub-Centres, Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs).
Smti Shylla, while emphasizing the government’s commitment to eliminate TB, noted that free health check-ups and treatment services are being made widely accessible to all TB patients.
Furthermore, she also underscored the importance of awareness among all sections of society regarding TB even as she stressed that increasing public awareness is crucial to support concerned departments and stakeholders in achieving the national goal of eliminating TB by 2030.
Additionally, she urged the participants to spread the message to their respective communities, especially those working in hazardous environmentsto undergo regular testing to prevent the spread of infection and ensure early detection.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri Manish Kumar, IAS, in his address commended officials of the Health Department for their efforts in combating Tuberculosis (TB), emphasizing that the disease is treatable, curable and preventable. He also highlighted that TB is not just a health issue but also a nutritional and socio-economic problem, linked to fear and stigma.
Further, he stated that the District Administration and the Health Department are running awareness programmes, health camps, etc to tackle the issue, however, despite these efforts, challenges,including situations where patients discontinue their treatment midway, still exist; even as he urged upon all stakeholders to join hands and work together to make the district TB free and contribute towards building a healthier and stronger nation.
In addition, he underscored that nutrition plays a crucial role and is a vital weapon in fighting TB and stated that the District Administration with community support is planning to strengthen nutritional support for TB patients and to intensify awareness campaigns in order to eliminate stigma and fear associated with the disease.
During the programme, all dignitaries and attendees led by the Chief Guest took a pledge to take responsibility in supporting TB patients, reducing stigma and promoting healthy practices. Subsequently, she also officially launched a short video performed by Megafun along with a music video sung by DJ Ryan which forms part of the initiative to further spread awareness and engage the public with regards to TB prevention and treatment.
Food baskets supported by the office of the Deputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills District were also distributed to 20 TB patients presented at the event.
On the occasion, awards were also given to several outstanding health workers and institutions for their contributions. Under the category of Best Mid-Level Health Providers(MLHPs), Smti. Manbhalang Myrlia of Narwan HWC (under Sutnga CHC) and Smti. Sumarlyne Mary Laloo of Iongkaluh HWC (Pamrapaithlu PHC) was awarded.
Best ASHA Performance was conferred to Smti. Wanroiki Dkhar, ASHA of Iongkaluh HWC. Best Laboratory Performance was given to Sutnga CHC. Shri Eladme Tariang, Pharmacist at Lumshnong PHC, was awarded as the Best DOTS Provider.
Additionally, Dr. R.Toi, Senior Medical&Health Officer, Sutnga CHC was recognized as the Best Medical Officer.
Furthermore, during the event,a list of 11 (Eleven) TB-free Villages was announced, with Shyrwang securing the Gold Category while Chiehruphi, Musiang Lamare New, Musiang Lamare Old, Thangskai, Wahiajer, Kremmyrsiang, Moopad, Shnongthymme, Kairang and Nongrim Hills were recognized under the Bronze Category.
Awards were also given to winners of the Drawing Competition conducted under two categories. In the 1st Category, the first prize was awarded to Miss Arkini Syrti of Khliehriat Higher Secondary School. The second prize went to Miss Treri Yeini Patlong of Sutnga Presbyterian Higher Secondary School, while the third prize was secured by Mr. Franki Dkhar of Wapung Higher Secondary School. Consolation prizes in this category were awarded to Miss Sofia Dkhar and Mr. Melvin Susngi, both from Little Star Secondary School, Ladrymbai.
In the 2nd Category, the first prize was won by Mr. Bravely Paslein of Little Star Academy Secondary School, Khliehriat. The second prize was awarded to Mr. Duru Emi Malang of Khliehriat Higher Secondary School and the third prize went to Herni Darnei Nanglein of Little Star Secondary School, Ladrymbai. Consolation prizes were given to Miss Mehek Ansari of Little Star Secondary School, Ladrymbai, and Mr. Redolency Grace Bamon of Moopala, SSA Upper Primary School.
Others who spoke during the programme were District Medical & Health Officer (DM&HO), East Jaintia Hill District, Dr D. Shylla and District Tuberculosis Officer (DTO), Jaintia Hills District, Dr P. Lamare.
