(a) whether the Government have conducted any survey to trace out the T.B. patients in rural areas in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government propose to formulate a scheme to encourage private sector and NRIs to take up the T.B. Control Programmes in rural areas;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the funds earmarked for this purpose, State-wise?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY
WELFARE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE)
(SHRI N.T. SHANMUGAM)
(a)&(b) No, Sir. However, the Programme itself envisages active case detection amongst patients attending outdoor health facilities both in rural and urban areas.
(c )&(d) The Tuberculosis Control Programme encourages involvement of NGO`s, private practitioners, Charitable organisations and industrial enterprises. For the wider involvement of NGOs in RNTCP, a policy has been formulated and circulated through which the services of the NGOs will be utilised depending on their individual capability, for 5 schemes, which are as under:-
1. Health education and community outreach.
2. Provision of directly observed treatment.
3. In-hospital care for tuberculosis disease.
4. Microscopy and treatment centre.
5. TB Unit Model.
Efforts have also been made to sensitize the Corporate and private sectors and private practitioners for their involvement in RNTCP through various seminars, workshops etc.
(f) No funds are released to the NGOs directly under the programme. However, funds released to District TB Societies can be utilised by NGOs as and when required by them according to the guidelines.