CM Flags Off Mobile Van Under ‘Ni-Kshay Abhiyan’
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu underwent tuberculosis (TB) screening using a portable X-ray machine during an event organized as part of the ‘Ni-Kshay Abhiyan’ today, where he served as the Chief Guest. He also flagged off a mobile van dedicated to the campaign. Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister emphasized that the 100-day ‘Ni-Kshay Abhiyan’ is a crucial step towards making Himachal Pradesh TB-free. The initiative focuses on the timely identification of TB cases, effective treatment, and spreading awareness within communities.
The campaign will be conducted across all districts of the state, with special attention given to vulnerable and marginalized groups. The Chief Minister urged citizens to actively participate in Ni-Kshay camps, encouraging early recognition of TB symptoms and timely testing. Expressing optimism, he stated that Himachal Pradesh is on the path to becoming TB-free soon. The state government has allocated an additional ₹2 crore for the Chief Minister’s TB Eradication Scheme to complement central government efforts. With 13% of the population above 60 years, he highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and preventive care for older adults while also stressing the need to educate the younger generation about healthy lifestyles.
Chief Minister Sukhu revealed plans to integrate health education into the school curriculum to raise awareness from an early age. He affirmed that the health sector is a priority for the state government, with ongoing reforms aimed at upgrading emergency departments in hospitals and equipping medical colleges with advanced medical devices. He assured that within a year, the state would provide residents access to modern diagnostic and treatment facilities.
The referral system in government health institutions is being revamped to establish a robust care framework. The government is also considering increasing monthly allowances for super-specialist doctors from ₹60,000 to ₹1.75 lakh and for specialist doctors to ₹1 lakh to attract and retain medical professionals. The Chief Minister also highlighted the state’s forests as the “lungs of North India” and urged the Union government to grant a “Green Bonus” in recognition of conservation efforts. Additionally, he shared that the state’s industrial policy is being revised to encourage green industries for sustainable development.
During the event, the Chief Minister administered a pledge for a TB-free India and distributed Ni-Kshay nutrition kits to TB patients. He also honored institutions and organizations contributing to the campaign. Health and Family Welfare Minister Col. (Dr.) Dhani Ram Shandil emphasized the need for vigilance and early treatment of TB. He noted that Himachal Pradesh has one of the highest TB screening rates in the country and provides monthly financial assistance to meet the nutritional needs of TB patients. He called for public cooperation in eliminating TB.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
