165 Gram Panchayats in Ganjam Declared TB-Free

Ganjam district in Odisha has marked a major milestone in public health by recognising 165 gram panchayats as tuberculosis-free. The achievement strengthens the district’s progress towards India’s target of eliminating TB by 2027 under a community-driven framework.

District Felicitates TB Mukta Panchayats

Local representatives were honoured in Berhampur for meeting the national criteria required for TB-free certification. Officials highlighted the proactive role of panchayat members in driving awareness, screening and treatment adherence. The recognition forms part of the TB Mukta Panchayat initiative launched nationwide to encourage grassroots participation in disease control.

Criteria for TB-Free Certification

To qualify, each gram panchayat must collect a minimum of 30 samples per 1,000 residents and ensure that active TB cases are either zero or below one per cent per 1,000 population. All diagnosed patients must receive uninterrupted treatment and support through the Nikshay Mitra scheme, which provides nutritional assistance during the recovery period. Only panchayats fulfilling all prescribed conditions receive TB-free status.

Declining TB Burden in Ganjam

Health officials reported a steady drop in TB cases across the district. Between January and October 2025, 4,986 cases were detected, compared with 6,540 in 2024 and 6,698 in 2023. The death rate has also fallen significantly from around 4–4.5 per cent four years ago to 1.5 per cent. Over 3,500 patients have received nutritional support this year under Nikshay Mitra, improving treatment adherence and recovery outcomes.

Exam Oriented Facts

• TB Mukta Panchayat initiative was launched on 24 March 2023.
• Certification requires 30 samples per 1,000 population and very low active case levels.
• Ganjam aims to declare 220 more panchayats TB-free by March next year.
• The district targets complete TB elimination by 2027.

Road Ahead for District-Wide Elimination

Officials credited community engagement for recent gains and urged continued vigilance to meet upcoming targets. Efforts now focus on expanding screenings, strengthening treatment support and ensuring every panchayat meets the national elimination standards within the next two years.