Mysuru: In a significant public health achievement, the Department of Health and Family Welfare has declared 147 gram panchayats (GPs) in Mysuru district as tuberculosis (TB)-free, marking steady progress towards eliminating the disease.
The declaration comes as part of a broader initiative to empower local governance systems to actively participate in TB eradication, while also addressing stigma, improving early diagnosis and ensuring sustained support for patients undergoing treatment.
Strong push towards TB elimination
Out of a total of 256 gram panchayats in Mysuru district, 147 have now been officially declared TB-free. Health officials attribute this milestone to consistent awareness campaigns, improved healthcare delivery and active community participation.
The district administration has been implementing targeted measures under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme to reduce the incidence of the disease. These measures focus on early detection, uninterrupted treatment and nutritional support for patients.
Awareness and grassroots efforts
A key factor behind the achievement has been continuous awareness programmes conducted across rural areas. Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), along with health assistants from primary health centres, have played a crucial role by conducting door-to-door visits.
These grassroots efforts have helped in identifying individuals showing symptoms of tuberculosis at an early stage and encouraging them to undergo testing and treatment. Regular screening at government hospitals has also contributed to reducing the number of undiagnosed cases.
Health officials noted that reducing stigma associated with TB has encouraged more people to come forward for diagnosis and treatment, which is critical in controlling its spread.
Government schemes aiding recovery
The successful implementation of welfare schemes such as the Nikshay Poshan Yojana has further strengthened the fight against tuberculosis. Under this scheme, registered TB patients receive Rs 1,000 per month as financial assistance, along with nutritional support during the course of treatment.
This support has helped improve treatment adherence among patients, reducing the chances of relapse and further transmission.
Declining trend in TB cases
Data from district health authorities indicate a gradual decline in TB cases over recent years. Mysuru recorded 3,597 cases in 2021, which increased to 4,008 in 2022, but subsequently declined to 3,713 in 2023, 3,500 in 2024 and 3,386 cases in 2025.
Officials credit early screening, prompt treatment and sustained awareness campaigns for this downward trend. Infection control measures, including maintaining proper ventilation in homes and public spaces and promoting respiratory hygiene, have also contributed to reducing transmission.
Continued efforts in remaining areas
District Tuberculosis Control Officer Dr Mohammed Siraj stated that efforts are ongoing to extend the TB-free status to the remaining gram panchayats and urban areas of the district.
An action plan has been prepared to target high-risk areas, and taluk-level committees have been formed to monitor progress and implement control measures effectively.
Recognising symptoms and prevention
Health authorities continue to emphasise the importance of early detection. Common symptoms of active tuberculosis include persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, chest pain, coughing up blood or phlegm, fever, night sweats, fatigue and unexplained weight loss.
Public awareness regarding these symptoms, along with timely medical intervention, is essential for achieving the goal of complete TB elimination.
Conclusion
The declaration of 147 TB-free gram panchayats reflects Mysuru district’s steady progress in combating tuberculosis through coordinated efforts between health authorities, local bodies and the community. With continued focus on awareness, early diagnosis and patient support, officials remain optimistic about achieving TB-free status across the entire district in the coming years.