Tuberculosis (TB) still touches the lives of thousands in India, silently affecting families, especially in under-resourced communities. While TB is a curable disease, the journey to recovery is not easy. It requires not only timely medical treatment but also good nutrition, emotional support, and dignity in care. Recognizing this, the Government of India launched the Nikshay Mitra initiative—an inspiring program that invites individuals, institutions, and organizations to support TB patients through nutritional, psychological, and vocational support.
Joining this national mission, Swami Rama Himalayan University (SRHU) launched its Comprehensive TB Elimination Program in May 2023, in line with the goals of the Nikshay Mitra scheme. Implemented by the Rural Development Institute (RDI), with support from the Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences (Departments of Pulmonary and Community Medicine), the program operates across Dehradun (Doiwala and Rishikesh) and Haridwar (Bahadrabad) districts. Field coordination is being provided by the AAS organization.
The heart of this program is simple: reaching patients where they are, understanding their needs, and supporting them consistently. Although the initial goal was to support 600 TB patients, the program has already touched the lives of more than 1500 people—a reflection of both the growing need and the deep commitment of those involved.
One of the most important aspects of this initiative is the nutritional support provided to each TB patient. It is well known that TB drains the body’s strength, and without proper nutrition, recovery becomes difficult. That’s why, under this program, every registered patient receives a Protein-Rich Food (PRF) kit every month for six months, aligned with their treatment schedule. These kits include wholesome, locally sourced items like Arhar Dal, Moong Dal, Kala Chana, Daliya, Sooji, Soyabean Badi, Peanuts, Eggs, Milk, Jaggery, and Mustard Oil. These are not just food items—they are lifelines, helping patients rebuild their strength and fight the disease from within.
To ensure holistic care, monthly health camps are organized on fixed days in each area. Patients are registered, their progress is monitored, and they receive individual counseling and medical check-ups. So far, more than 5000 PRF kits have been distributed. Continuous health monitoring ensures that any complications are detected early, and that patients feel supported throughout their treatment.
A unique approach adopted by the program is the involvement of TB survivors, now trained as TB Champions. These brave individuals share their personal stories, offer guidance, and help break the stigma around the disease. Their presence reminds patients that recovery is possible and that they are not alone. Adding to the strength of the initiative is the monthly involvement of dedicated doctors from the Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, who accompany the field teams. Their presence ensures professional follow-up, builds trust, and brings hospital-level care to the doorstep of each patient.
As India moves toward its goal of eliminating TB by 2025, programs like this shine as examples of what’s possible when care, compassion, and community come together. It’s not just about ending a disease—it’s about restoring lives with dignity, one patient, one meal, and one kind word at a time.
