Leh, Jul 26: An intensified tuberculosis screening camp was held at the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) Camp in Sakti, Leh, with the aim of early detection and timely treatment of TB, especially among migrant workers and BRO personnel. The initiative was jointly organized by the Health Department of UT Ladakh and BRO’s Project Himank, supported by 846 AMIR and 51 RCC.
Brigadier N.S. Ajai Chandra, VSM, Deputy Director General (Medical), addressed the gathering, stressing that TB is a curable disease and that early screening plays a vital role in stopping its spread. He praised the collaborative efforts of medical and defence teams in reaching vulnerable groups.
The screening was carried out by a team led by Mission Director NHM, Shri Tushar Anand (IAS). Tests included chest X-rays, skin testing, and molecular diagnostics. These methods were used to accurately identify suspected TB cases among high-risk individuals.
Director of the Health Department, Dr. Tashi Thinlas, underscored the public health challenges posed by TB and reiterated the region’s commitment to India’s national goal of TB elimination. “Timely detection using reliable methods helps ensure that treatment begins before the disease spreads,” he said. “Our campaign is focused on reaching out to migrant communities and those most at risk.”
Senior BRO officials including Lt. Colonel Prince Arvind (DADMS), EE Aviral Jain (Officer Commanding 51 RCC), and Captain Parveen lent their full support to the awareness and screening drive. They engaged with health teams and facilitated logistics to make the camp successful.
Dr. Thinlas extended his appreciation to the BRO and the people of Ladakh for their cooperation and participation in the campaign. “This effort reflects a shared responsibility between the armed forces, health authorities, and local communities,” he noted.
The camp also included educational sessions on recognizing early TB symptoms, the importance of preventive care, and the availability of free treatment through government health services. The program witnessed active participation from workers and personnel stationed at the camp, reinforcing the shared goal of eliminating TB from even the remotest corners of the country.
