Parliament Panel Urges Using Drones, Mobile Apps, Others in TB Eradication Move in India

The parliamentary panel recommends leveraging technology, drones, mobile apps, and integrated systems for TB surveillance and control efforts under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (PMTBMBA).

A Parliamentary Panel that assessed the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (PMTBMBA), a health program of the Indian government, has urged using drones, data integration systems, and mobile apps to enhance tuberculosis (TB) surveillance, control, and eradication efforts across the country.

The Department-Related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare's 149th report highlighted the need for technology-driven solutions to combat TB. The committee recommended allocating dedicated staff and budgets for PMTBMBA under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) and integrating the Ni-kshay portal with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.

The Ni-kshay portal, with its potential for continuous surveillance and patient tracking from detection to treatment completion, was suggested to become a more user-friendly and comprehensive platform for TB data collection.

The report emphasised developing mobile applications for continuous TB patient monitoring, district-wise vulnerability mapping, and active case finding using digital tools to strengthen TB surveillance.

Following a successful model implemented in Himachal Pradesh, the committee also proposed using drones to transport TB samples and drugs in challenging terrains. The usage of drones significantly reduced transportation time and operational costs.

Additionally, the committee advocated for FAST (Find, Assess, Support, and Treat) centres to be established nationwide, similar to the system in Tamil Nadu. These centres serve as a single-window system for TB patient notification, public health actions, and treatment adherence support, enhancing TB care standards and private healthcare providers' participation in TB control activities.

Integration of clinical data on the Ni-kshay portal and telemedicine for real-time monitoring and patient follow-up were among the recommendations to improve TB surveillance further. The report noted the potential for strengthening TB surveillance, drawing inspiration from successful polio and smallpox eradication programs in India.

In a bid to enhance TB detection, the committee suggested integrating active case-finding for TB with existing house-to-house surveys conducted by ASHA workers during immunisation programs. This approach would help identify symptomatic and asymptomatic TB cases in high-risk areas such as slums and densely populated regions.

Furthermore, the report emphasised addressing malnutrition as a crucial aspect of TB control. It recommended strengthening food and nutrition-related programs and integrating them with PMTBMBA through the public distribution system.

To involve public representatives in TB control efforts, the committee proposed that the 5,000-6,000 public representatives across the country collaborate with officers and NGOs to support TB cases in their respective constituencies or states.

Efficient resource management and effective channelisation of funds were underscored as vital for motivating representatives at all levels to assist TB patients. The report also emphasised the essential role of State Governments in successfully implementing centrally sponsored programs such as PMTBMBA.

Ultimately, the committee believes that with the adoption of advanced technologies, effective resource management, and collaborative efforts at all levels of government and society, India can make significant strides towards achieving its goal of ending TB by 2025.