Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan – The government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to roll out a significant initiative aimed at addressing the nutritional needs of individuals affected by tuberculosis (TB). The Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (PMTBMB) is designed to encourage contributions from various sectors, including NGOs, corporations, and individuals, to support the dietary requirements of TB patients.
Understanding the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan
Through this programme, individuals and organizations have the opportunity to adopt TB patients, referred to as “Nikshay Mitra,” or “dear friends.” By adopting a patient, these Nikshay Mitras are responsible for providing nutritional support based on a specific list of food items to assist in the patients’ recovery.
Goals of the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan
The main aim of this initiative is to ensure that TB patients receive the necessary nutrition to boost their chances of recovery. The programme is aligned with India’s goal of eliminating TB from the country by 2025, significantly ahead of the global target of 2030.
During the 74th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York in 2019, Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s commitment to eradicating TB by 2025, five years sooner than the global deadline.
According to the Global TB Report 2024, India accounts for 24% of the global gap in TB case reporting, making it critical for the nation to enhance its health strategies.
India is listed among the countries with high TB rates in the World Health Organization’s (WHO) reports for 2025 and beyond, covering categories such as TB incidence and drug-resistant TB.
How Will PMTBMB Work?
As part of this initiative, the programme will facilitate the distribution of monthly essentials including 3.5 kg of cereals, 1 liter of cooking oil, 1.5 kg of pulses, milk powder, eggs, fruits, and vegetables to those who adopt TB patients.
The official launch of the programme will take place in a virtual event likely between August 20 and August 24, although the exact date has yet to be confirmed.
Support for TB Patients: Current Status
Recent statistics suggest that there are approximately 1.35 million TB patients in India, with over 900,000 expressing willingness to accept support from Nikshay Mitras. The government has reported significant engagement in the initiative, with 447 individuals and 122 NGOs, among others, stepping forward to contribute towards adopting patients for a year.
Current TB Scenario in India
A recent report noted a 19% rise in TB cases in 2024 compared to the prior year, with reported incidences reaching 1,933,381. PM Modi’s commitment remains firm, emphasizing the focus on eradiating TB in India by 2025, reaffirmed during the UNGA in 2019.