Aizawl, Aug 6, 2025: Mizoram Governor, General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd), today graced the Nikshay Mitra Felicitation and Food Basket Distribution programme under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan at Raj Bhavan. The event, also attended by Health & Family Welfare Minister Lalrinpuii, honoured Nikshay Mitras - volunteers supporting TB patients with nutritional aid - and distributed essential food baskets to patients.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor reaffirmed India’s goal to eliminate tuberculosis by 2025, five years ahead of the global target. With just six months to go, he called for intensified, multi-sector efforts beyond the Health Department. He noted that improved diagnostics and accessible medicines have made TB more manageable, but sustained public participation remains vital.
Highlighting that only 117 of Mizoram’s 1,501 TB patients currently receive nutritional aid under the Food Basket Support initiative, he urged NGOs, churches, and citizens to step up support. Pledging to personally sponsor food baskets for 10 patients, the Governor voiced hope that Mizoram could become the first TB-free state in India.
Health Minister Lalrinpuii stressed the need for grassroots awareness to curb TB’s airborne spread, pointing to government measures such as free testing, medicines, and a monthly ₹1,000 nutrition allowance for patients. She affirmed that TB is curable with collective determination.
During the event, two exemplary Nikshay Mitras - NEDFi and Dr. Laxmi Narayan - were felicitated for their contributions. NEDFi also handed over a cheque for ₹4.9 lakh to support the nutritional needs of 100 TB patients. Four TB patients received food baskets during the ceremony.
Officials noted that Mizoram currently has 76 active Nikshay Mitras, but 32.5% of patients still lack nutritional support, contributing to malnutrition. The state ranks 12th in the national TB score with a treatment success rate of 79.50%, though around 5% of patients die from the disease. In 2024, Mizoram recorded 2,306 TB cases and 136 deaths.
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The programme began with a welcome address by Pu H. Lalengmawia, Commissioner & Secretary, Health & Family Welfare Department, and a detailed briefing by Dr. Zochhuanawmi, Joint Director (TB) and State TB Officer. Dr. Lily Chhakchhuak, Mission Director, National Health Mission, delivered the vote of thanks.
