Haryana Boosts TB Elimination Efforts with New Patient-Centric Initiatives

The state of Haryana has recently unveiled a comprehensive series of new patient-centric initiatives under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), reinforcing its commitment to achieving a TB-free status. These significant efforts were announced by Sumita Misra, the Additional Chief Secretary (Health & Family Welfare) of Haryana. The initiatives underscore a multi-pronged approach that combines digital innovation, robust diagnostics, community participation, and socio-economic support for TB patients and survivors. Among the key initiatives launched is a dedicated State TB Cell website, designed to provide real-time public access to a range of TB services. This digital platform aims to enhance transparency and streamline access to information and support for individuals affected by tuberculosis across the state. Another groundbreaking measure is the establishment of a first-of-its-kind Sewing Machine Centre. This centre is specifically created to empower TB survivors by helping them regain financial independence through vocational training, symbolizing the state's focus on life after TB. The first trained beneficiary is reportedly set to receive her machine soon. To further improve clinical outcomes, Haryana has introduced a new clinical guidance document. This document is specifically aimed at reducing TB mortality by providing healthcare professionals with updated, evidence-based protocols for managing the disease. In an effort to bolster public awareness and combat the stigma associated with TB, an upcoming celebrity-led awareness drive has also been announced. This strategy seeks to leverage popular figures to disseminate crucial information and encourage early detection and treatment. Furthermore, the state is integrating its cash management initiative, SNA Sparsh, with Nikshay, the web-enabled patient management system for TB control. This integration is expected to enhance the efficiency of financial assistance delivery and overall program management. The state has also demonstrated remarkable performance in its TB elimination efforts during the period of January to December 2025. Haryana conducted an impressive 12,52,537 sputum tests, significantly exceeding its target of 9,75,000 tests. This translates to an achievement of 3,848 tests per lakh population. A total of 88,689 tuberculosis cases were notified within the same timeframe, reaching 98% of the annual target. Notably, the private sector's contribution was significant, achieving 105% of its notification target, highlighting effective public-private coordination in the state's health infrastructure. Treatment outcomes in Haryana remain highly encouraging. In 2024, a total of 74,483 patients were successfully treated, marking a commendable 90% treatment success rate. This indicates the efficacy of the treatment protocols and patient support systems in place. Complementing TB treatment, comprehensive screening for co-morbidities has also been a priority. HIV testing coverage reached 98% among TB patients, while diabetes screening covered 96%, ensuring an integrated approach to patient care and management of co-existing conditions. Under the broader 'TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan' (TB-Free India Campaign), specifically through the 'Nikshay Shivir' program, Haryana has made substantial strides. Over 34 lakh vulnerable individuals were mapped, and more than 10 lakh were successfully screened for tuberculosis. The 'Nikshay Mitra' initiative, a community support programme launched nationally in September 2022 by the President of India and in Haryana on September 17, 2022, has also yielded significant results. It has facilitated nutritional and social support for thousands of patients, with over 2.64 lakh food baskets distributed since its inception. Haryana's robust implementation of the Nikshay Mitra initiative received national appreciation on World TB Day 2025. Furthermore, the state has achieved the status of 'TB Mukt Panchayats' (TB-Free Village Councils) for 1,855 panchayats in 2024. This achievement aligns with the ambitious target set by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to declare 1,800 gram panchayats TB-free by March 2025, building upon the 579 panchayats that achieved this status in 2023. The state's health infrastructure continues to expand, comprising 23 District TB Centres, 168 TB Units, and 452 Microscopy Centres, equipped with advanced diagnostic machines and specialized laboratories. While the integration of SNA Sparsh with Nikshay promises greater efficiency in fund flow, some initial delays in enrolling patient data into the new Sparsh portal were reported in November 2025, which were being addressed. Overall, Haryana's proactive and multi-sectoral approach, as highlighted by these new initiatives and impressive performance metrics, positions it firmly on track to achieve the national goal of TB elimination by 2025, five years ahead of the global target.

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