Gujarat has achieved significant progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s "TB Eradication Programme," launched in 2018. As per agency report, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the state has recorded a 34% reduction in the number of new tuberculosis cases and a 37% decrease in the mortality rate in 2023 compared to 2015. This performance has earned Gujarat the top rank among the “most improved states” by the Central Government.
Rajkot District Tuberculosis Eradication Centre has made a commendable contribution to this achievement. Between December 7, 2024, and April 30, 2025, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, conducted an "Intensified TB Eradication Campaign." During this campaign, 1,52,603 high-risk individuals in rural Rajkot were screened. Of these, 51,842 underwent X-ray tests, and 20,244 underwent sputum tests. A total of 356 individuals were diagnosed with TB and have begun treatment.
The initiative was executed under the guidance of District Chief Health Officer Dr. R.R. Phulmali and TB Officer Dr. Ghanshyam Mehta. Through the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana, 772 patients currently undergoing treatment received a combined financial aid of Rs. 34.29 lakh. Additionally, with the support of 'Nikshay Mitras,' 1,192 TB patients received nutrition kits containing grains, pulses, milk, and other essential food items.
To ensure structured treatment, the Government of India has implemented a robust protocol that categorizes patients based on their risk levels and provides appropriate treatment. Patients’ conditions are closely monitored at each stage to prevent relapse and ensure sustained recovery.
Gujarat’s model has now become an example for other states to emulate in the nationwide goal of eliminating tuberculosis.
