Metropolis Foundation commenced the on-ground execution of adopting TB patients under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan from 1 December 2022. Under the Ni-Kshay Mitra 2.0 initiative, Metropolis Foundation is extending nutritional support to 650 consented TB patients in Mumbai district residing in ‘L’ ward (Kurla).
According to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Mumbai has a high load of TB patients whereas a few of the 24 wards have a high TB burden. It has been observed that one such ward with a higher number of TB cases is ‘L’ Ward - Kurla in Mumbai.
Metropolis Foundation, being a Ni-Kshay Mitra will be working closely with DTO, L Ward and will be supporting TB patients with monthly grocery kits from Apna Bazaar Co-op. for the next 6 months. Under this initiative, the patient will be provided with a printed voucher at the health post where he/she is receiving medicines. The patient will then have to reach out to one of the partner Apna Bazar stores to collect their pre-packed high-protein Nutrition Kit. The store will honour the voucher, and the kit will be handed over to the patient free of cost. Metropolis Foundation will then reimburse the stores.
Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Duru Shah, Chairperson and Trustee of Metropolis Foundation said: “The global target to end TB as per the Sustainable Development Goals is to reduce TB incidence by 80%, TB deaths by 90% and cut catastrophic costs due to TB by 2030. The ‘Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan’ envisioned by our Hon’ble Prime Minister intends to eliminate TB in India by 2025 which is 5 years ahead of the global target of 2030. In line with the ongoing campaign, we are delighted to collaborate with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Apna Bazar Co-op. to support the government’s efforts in the National TB Elimination Program.”
Dr. Kirti Chadha, Chief Scientific Officer and Group Head CSR, Metropolis Healthcare commented: “The ultimate aim of this initiative is to ensure continued adherence to treatment, improvement in weight and overall immunity of the patient, decreasing the out-of-pocket expenses and sick leaves. We believe that the quicker recovery of TB patients can help in the lesser transmission of TB in society.”
Print Coverage: Saamna, Lok Mat - Hello Mumbai
Online Coverage: ET Healthworld, Pharmabiz, Lokmat Times