In a major step towards eliminating tuberculosis from the financial capital, the ‘TB-Free Mumbai’ campaign was formally launched today at Lokmanya Tilak Municipal General Hospital under a joint initiative of Maharashtra Lokbhavan and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation.
The campaign was inaugurated by Maharashtra Governor C.P.Radhakrishnan in the presence of Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde who chaired the programme. Deputy Mayor Sanjay Ghadigaonkar attended the event as the guest of honour. As part of the initiative, a special booklet prepared for the ‘TB-Free Mumbai’ campaign was released. Voluntary organisations associated with the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme were also felicitated for their contribution towards spreading awareness, early diagnosis, and treatment support for TB patients across Mumbai.
The event witnessed the presence of several public representatives and senior civic officials, including MLA Dr. Jyoti Gaikwad, MLA Captain R. Tamil Selvan, MLA Sunil Shinde, Education Committee Chairperson Rajeshree Shirwadkar, Public Health Committee Chairman Harish Bhandirge, Market and Garden Committee Vice-Chairman Bhaskar Shetty, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Western Suburbs) Dr. Vipin Sharma, Deputy Commissioner (Public Health) Sharad Ughade, Director of Medical Education and Major Hospitals Dr. Shailesh Mohite, and Executive Health Officer Dr. Daksha Shah.
Health officers, ASHA workers, and representatives of various non-governmental organisations also participated in the programme, highlighting the importance of collective efforts in achieving a tuberculosis-free Mumbai. Prior to the main event, the Governor, Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and other dignitaries visited the Eknathrao Gaikwad Urban Health Centre where nutrition kits were distributed to tuberculosis patients to support their recovery and improve overall health. A handheld X-ray machine was also donated to strengthen screening and early detection efforts in densely populated areas.
During the visit, Governor C. P. Radhakrishnan interacted with district tuberculosis officers and ASHA workers, appreciating their dedication and grassroots efforts in combating tuberculosis. He stressed the need for public awareness, timely diagnosis, and community participation to make Mumbai free from TB.
