An Ayushman Arogya Shivir was organised in Dharamshala to promote preventive healthcare, early diagnosis, and public awareness in line with the objectives of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. It was organised by the Kangra district administration as part of the Red Cross Fair.
The Shivir was inaugurated by Divisional Commissioner, Kangra, Sandeep Kumar. The camp provided essential diagnostic services, including haemoglobin (Hb) testing, blood pressure (BP) measurement, blood sugar testing, and chest X-ray facilities, enabling early detection of tuberculosis and non-communicable diseases.
The Divisional Commissioner appreciated the efforts of the Health Department in bringing healthcare services closer to the community. He emphasised that such outreach initiatives strengthen public health systems and encourage a culture of preventive healthcare.
District Health Officer-cum-TB Officer Dr R.K. Sood said similar Ayushman Arogya Shivirs are being conducted across identified high-risk villages and wards to accelerate progress under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. Dr Sood added that a major technological highlight of the camp was the use of ultra-portable, AI-enabled hand-held X-ray devices capable of delivering and interpreting chest X-rays within a minute.
Dr Omesh Bharti, Padma Shri awardee and Deputy Director, Department of Health and Family Welfare, led by example and underwent a chest X-ray using the AI-enabled hand-held portable X-ray machine for TB screening.
Dr Bharti actively interacted with the public and shared valuable insights on disease prevention and health promotion, with special focus on first aid management in cases of snakebite and dog bite. He stressed the need of adopting a scientific temperament and relying on evidence-based medical practices.
A key attraction of the event was an interactive live health quiz that witnessed enthusiastic participation. The quiz covered topics such as nutrition, blood donation, lung health, HPV vaccination for adolescent girls, anaemia, and general wellness. Students and participants were awarded prizes for correct answers, making the session both educational and engaging.
Senior officials present on the occasion included Deputy Commissioner H.R. Bairwa, Additional Deputy Commissioner Vinay Kumar, Chief Medical Officer Dr Vivek Karol, and WHO Consultant (TB) Dr Niket Satapara. Medical Officers from Dharamshala, Tanda, and Nagrota Bagwan, along with Community Health Officers from Shahpur, actively contributed to the successful conduct of the camp.
An exhibition on tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS was also organised, attracting significant attention from visitors and the media. It highlighted the 95-95-95 Sampoorna Suraksha Goals under the global End AIDS 95-95-95 targets initiative, along with key strategies of the TB Mukt Bharat campaign focusing on early detection, treatment adherence, and community participation. Various departments also showcased their activities through exhibitions at the Mela.
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