New Delhi, 23 March 2021: The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, in his message on the eve of World Tuberculosis Day, which is observed every year on March 24, has said:-
“I am happy to learn that World Tuberculosis Day is being observed on 24th March, 2021 to raise public awareness about TB. On this day in the year 1882, Dr. Robert Koch announced the discovery of the bacteria that causes TB. It paved the way for diagnosis and cure of this deadly disease.
The year 2020 was a watershed moment for healthcare in India as well as around the world. The COVID-19 pandemic underlined the importance of a quality healthcare system accessible to every individual.
The entire National TB Elimination Program was at the forefront in fight against COVID-19. Their commitment towards tackling the COVID pandemic while continuing with TB elimination efforts is commendable. Government of India is committed to achieving the goal of Universal Health Coverage as per the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This is being implemented under the aegis of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana which is the largest national insurance scheme in the world.
I would like to complement the National TB Elimination Program on their commendable achievements despite the difficult circumstances. On this occasion we should reinvigorate our efforts to achieve ‘Health for All’, and create a brighter and healthier future for generations to come”.