Udhampur 15th August:- On the historic occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day, the Chief Medical Officer Udhampur, Dr. Anil Manhas, District Tuberculosis Officer, Dr. Anil Saloch, District Immunization Officer, Dr. Anuradha Kerni, officers from the CMO and Dy. CMO offices, and other staff members came together at the CMO Office, Udhampur, to honour the spirit of freedom and reaffirm their commitment to public health.
The celebrations commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag by Dr. Anil Manhas, followed by the singing of the National Anthem, filling the premises with patriotic fervour. The office was adorned with tricolour decorations, and participants donned patriotic badges, sashes, and caps, creating an atmosphere of unity and pride.
This year’s Independence Day carries the official theme “Naya Bharat”, symbolising the nation’s vision of building a stronger, self-reliant, and developed India (Viksit Bharat) by 2047. The theme inspired participants to blend national service with public health efforts for a healthier and progressive society.
In alignment with the day’s spirit, a special awareness drive under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan was organised by the District TB Control Society Udhampur. The initiative aimed to reinforce the commitment to make India TB-free by 2025.
Through the Nikshay Mitra initiative, staff pledged to support TB patients in every possible way—ensuring treatment adherence, providing nutritional and moral support, and promoting stigma-free healthcare.
Awareness messages stressed that cough is not the only symptom of TB, highlighting other warning signs such as persistent fever, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, and prolonged fatigue.
Informative photo frames and banners were displayed to engage visitors and reinforce early detection and prompt treatment.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Anil Manhas emphasised that independence is not only political freedom but also the health and well-being of the nation’s citizens. He called upon all health workers to act as health ambassadors in their communities and contribute actively towards both nation-building and the eradication of TB.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, the chanting of patriotic slogans, and a reaffirmation of the collective pledge to work with dedication, compassion, and unity for the people of Udhampur.
