Experts at National Conference at PGIMS Pledge to Make Nation and State TB-Free; - Early Detection Essential to Eradicate TB: VC Dr. H.K. Agarwal

Rohtak, May 17, 2026: Experts from across the country gathered at PGIMS, Rohtak, on Sunday for a national-level CME (Continuing Medical Education) conference to deliberate on ways to give impetus to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'TB-Free India' campaign.

Held under the theme "Tuberculosis Diagnosis and Management: The Emerging Paradigm," the conference saw TB specialists from across the nation pledge to make Haryana a TB-free state in the near future. Vice-Chancellor Dr. H.K. Agarwal attended the event—organized under the joint aegis of PGIMS, Rohtak, and the State Tuberculosis Cell (NTEP), Haryana—as the Chief Guest.

In his address, Vice-Chancellor Dr. H.K. Agarwal lauded the conference's theme, stating that such programs are highly informative and provide valuable insights into scientific evidence. He noted that the knowledge gained at this event would ultimately benefit patients across the entire state. Dr. Agarwal emphasized that to eradicate TB, the chain of transmission must be broken, and for this to happen, the early identification of patients is absolutely crucial.

Director Dr. Suresh Singhal highlighted that the conference included discussions on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in detecting TB through X-rays. He further announced that a dedicated team would be constituted to screen indoor patients.

Director of Health Services, Dr. Brahmdeep Sindhu, said that the country is doing excellent work in tackling challenges such as TB. He added that all medical professionals are working cohesively as a team to support PM Modi's 'TB-Free India' initiative.

Director General of Health Services, Dr. Manish Bansal noted that there has been a significant increase in TB diagnoses, accompanied by a decline in the mortality rate associated with the disease. He announced that bronchoscopy services would soon be introduced in all districts, which will facilitate the easier identification of patients suffering from advanced or complicated forms of TB.

Dr. Suryakant Tripathi from Lucknow shared his insights and recommendations on strategies to reduce TB-related mortality. He stated that efforts are underway to reserve one bed in every ICU specifically for TB patients.

The Organizing Chairman, Dr. Dhruv Chaudhary, emphasized that taking precautions against the disease is essential. He added that the Department of Microbiology plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis of TB. Deputy Director of Health Services, Dr. Virendra Kumar Yadav, and State Tuberculosis Officer, Dr. Rajesh Raju, were also present at the conference.

During the discussions, experts acknowledged that the introduction of new technologies, AI-based diagnostics, shorter treatment regimens, and bronchoscopy facilities at the district level would give fresh momentum to the eradication of TB in Haryana. It was highlighted that symptoms such as a cough persisting for more than two weeks, fever, and weight loss could be indicative of TB. Individuals experiencing these symptoms are advised to undergo immediate testing at their nearest health center, where treatment is provided completely free of cost.

The event was attended by expert physicians from across the country, including Medical Superintendent Dr. Kundan Mittal, Dr. Aparna Parmar, Dr. Prem Prakash, Dr. Rajesh, Dr. Vipul, Dr. Sandeep, Dr. Neelam, Dr. Varun Arora (In-charge of the Public Relations Department), Dr. Pawan, Dr. Aman Ahuja, and Dr. Anuj.