The TB Mukt Panchayat initiative has achieved a remarkable milestone in Haryana. During the latest verification process in 2025, official teams found approximately 35 per cent of the state's total gram panchayats eligible for TB-free certification. This progress marks a substantial leap from the 9 per cent recorded in 2023. Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched this strategic programme on World Tuberculosis Day in 2023. The initiative seeks to empower local governance to address the magnitude of tuberculosis at the grassroots level.

Rapid Progress in TB Elimination

The state has demonstrated consistent momentum over the past three years. In 2023, Haryana secured only 574 certifications, all within the bronze category. However, the number of eligible panchayats nearly tripled by the following year to reach 1,855. This figure then accounted for 30 per cent of the total local governance units. Consequently, the tally rose further to 2,157 eligible panchayats in 2025. This growth highlights the active participation of local leaders in the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.

Tiered Certification Structure

The programme employs a clear three-tier structure to reward sustained efforts. Specifically, panchayats receive bronze certification if they maintain a TB-free status for one year. The government awards silver status to those who sustain this condition for two consecutive years. Moreover, the state gives gold certification to panchayats that remain TB-free for three consecutive years. In 2025, 211 panchayats achieved gold status, while 646 qualified for silver. These awards encourage healthy competition among local communities.

Six Indicators for the TB Mukt Panchayat Initiative

To ensure credibility, the verification process utilizes six specific indicators prescribed by the Government of India. Official teams must validate these claims before the Deputy Commissioner issues a certificate. Specifically, the district development officer and the civil surgeon lead this rigorous review. The indicators include the presumptive TB examination rate and case notification rates. Additionally, health officials monitor treatment success rates and nutritional support distribution. These measures ensure that only genuine results receive official recognition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Who issues the TB-free certificates to the panchayats?

The Deputy Commissioner issues the certificates annually on World TB Day. These certificates remain valid for exactly one year from the date of issuance.

Q2: What is the goal of involving Panchayati Raj Institutions?

The objective is to empower local leaders to understand and solve tuberculosis-related problems. This approach fosters community ownership and creates sustainable solutions for disease elimination.

Q3: How many panchayats in Haryana are eligible for gold status in 2025?

In 2025, 211 panchayats in Haryana qualified for the prestigious gold certification by sustaining their status for three years.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or replace professional judgment. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

1. 35% of panchayats in Haryana declared TB-free in 2025, up from 9% in 2023 - ETHealthworld


2. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Handbook on TB Mukt Panchayat Initiative. Government of India; 2023.


3. National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP). Performance Report 2024-2025.