Navi Mumbai: March 24 is observed globally as World Tuberculosis (TB) Day to raise awareness about the disease and emphasize the need for collective action. India accounts for 25% of the world’s total TB cases, with 10% of those found in Maharashtra, making it a major public health concern. Recognizing the severity of the issue, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) launched various awareness initiatives to educate the public about TB.
Each year, the World Health Organization (WHO) announces a slogan to mark the occasion. For March 24, 2025, the theme is “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”, highlighting the importance of commitment, financial investment, and effective service delivery in the fight against TB.
Tuberculosis, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, spreads through respiratory transmission. As part of the global sustainable development goals, TB eradication is targeted by 2030. However, India has set an ambitious goal to eliminate the disease by 2025, as announced by the Honorable Prime Minister. Various initiatives under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) are being implemented to achieve this objective.
To eradicate TB, the state has identified three key focus areas: commitment from all stakeholders to work toward TB elimination, implementation of innovative initiatives along with adequate funding for research and service accessibility, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality healthcare services to TB patients.
On the occasion of World Tuberculosis Day, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation organized a series of awareness programs across its jurisdiction. A TB awareness rally was held with the participation of students from NMMC School No. 1 in Belapur Village. The rally concluded at Mata Bal Hospital, Belapur, where a collective pledge for a TB-free India was taken in the presence of Dr. Prashant Jawade, Medical Health Officer, along with healthcare staff and NTEP officials. Additionally, awareness sessions were conducted in schools to educate students about TB. Rangoli competitions were organized at municipal hospitals, while street plays were performed in slum areas and high-risk zones to spread awareness. Several public meetings, patient gatherings, and training sessions were held to further educate the community.
The awareness efforts extended to D.Y. Patil Medical College and Terna Medical College, where poster competitions, conferences, and health education sessions for TB patients were conducted. To ensure effective TB eradication, government and private healthcare sectors must work together. Private hospitals, clinics, and laboratories are required to report TB cases to NMMC for coordinated treatment efforts, and steps are being taken to enforce this collaboration.
Municipal Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde has urged private organizations and citizens to actively support the mission to make Navi Mumbai TB-free. With collective efforts from public institutions, private entities, and the community, complete eradication of tuberculosis from the city is possible.
