17/10/2025
The Office of the District Tuberculosis Officer, Ri Bhoi, in collaboration with the District Medical & Health Officer, Ri Bhoi District, organized a Food Basket Distribution Programme under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (PMTBMBA).
This initiative of the Government of India aims to support TB patients during their course of treatment. The programme encourages individuals, NGOs, and corporate entities to extend their support to TB patients through the provision of nutritious food baskets, psychosocial assistance, and other forms of care.
Under the leadership of Shri A. Baranwal, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Ri Bhoi District, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner took the initiative to appeal to corporates and individuals to come forward and support TB patients in the district through the PMTBMBA. Responding to this call, several petrol pumps and individuals have volunteered as Nikshay Mitras to support patients.
On 17th October 2025, food baskets were distributed to 29 TB patients from Umsning CHC. The programme was graced by Smt. A. Pradhan, IAS, Assistant Commissioner, as the Chief Guest, in the presence of Dr. E. Kalwing, District TB Officer; Dr. C. Sohkhia, Medical Officer In-Charge, Umsning CHC; Smt. Balakyntiew Umbah, President of RAWA; various health staff, TB patients, and their family members.
During the programme, Dr. E. Kalwing, District TB Officer, informed that there are currently more than 273 patients undergoing treatment in the district, and around 214 patients have already been adopted by Nikshay Mitras .With this new initiative spearheaded by the Deputy Commissioner’s Office and the continued support of individuals and corporates, it is hoped that all TB patients under treatment, as well as newly diagnosed cases, will be covered under the PMTBMBA. She further emphasized that this initiative is not merely about distributing food baskets, but also about bringing hope, joy, and happiness to those suffering from TB.
In her address, Smt. A. Pradhan, IAS, Assistant Commissioner, highlighted that the fight against Tuberculosis cannot be accomplished by the government alone—it requires the collective support of society. She stressed that the stigma associated with TB can only be overcome through community awareness and empathy. The Chief Guest also expressed gratitude to all officers, staff, stakeholders, and individuals who have worked tirelessly in the fight against TB, with the shared hope of achieving a TB-free Ri Bhoi District.
CMO Meghalaya
Nhm Meghalaya
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare