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Puducherry is on track to become free from tuberculosis (TB) earlier than the national deadline, according to Lt Governor K. Kailashnathan. While India has set an ambitious goal to eradicate TB by 2025—five years ahead of the global target of 2030—the Union Territory has made remarkable strides towards this objective.
Lt Governor Kailashnathan highlighted Puducherry’s significant progress in TB eradication, stating, “Puducherry has made substantial progress as far as the eradication of TB is concerned, and even though this goal has to be achieved by 2030 (globally), I think we will achieve it earlier.” He noted that the district of Mahe is already free of TB, expressing hope that the rest of Puducherry will soon follow.
The success in Puducherry is attributed to several factors:
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Advanced medical infrastructure: The territory boasts seven TB units, 28 diagnostic centres, and an Intermediate Reference Laboratory (IRL) recognized as India’s best last year. This IRL is equipped with molecular testing and gene sequencing facilities, making it a world-class diagnostic centre.
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Comprehensive screening: A door-to-door TB screening programme targets vulnerable populations, involving government doctors, private medical colleges, and volunteers to identify and treat active cases.
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High treatment success rate: Authorities report a 98% success rate in TB treatment, with only 2% of patients lost to follow-up, mainly due to migration.
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Innovative outreach: Puducherry is the first state to include TB screening under the ‘Family Adoption Programme’. Medical students adopt families as part of their community outreach, screening all members for TB and assisting with diagnosis and treatment when necessary. The National Medical Commission has mandated that medical students adopt 3 to 5 families and follow up with them for three years.
Officials credit these initiatives, along with robust public awareness and access to quality healthcare, for Puducherry’s progress in combating TB.
Disclaimer: This article is based on an agency feed and has not been edited by an independent editor. The information presented reflects the statements and data provided by officials as of July 4, 2025.
