DIMAPUR, APRIL 26 (MExN): The Nagaland Users’ Network (NUN) has expressed deep resentment over the ‘lackadaisical attitude and failure’ of the State government to release funds meant for Tuberculosis (TB) program in the state.
In a release, Renbonthung Tungoe (Advocacy Officer), NUN stated that quality service cannot be implemented in the presence of delay in funds or its shortage. It expressed apprehension that this could lead to spread of new TB infections, and compromise its treatment success rate.
It stated that the Central TB division has already sanctioned the total amount to the state RNTCP division; however, there have been reports of repeated delay in funds from the state treasury to the RNTCP.
In this regard, the NUN said, “this financial crunch will surely de-motivate those working tirelessly in the TB programs. It will thus make it difficult to reach the national targets.”
While acknowledging the RNTCP division for continuing the program implementation despite the financial challenges, NUN has urged the government to accelerate the release of the remaining amount of Rs 95.35 lakh for the TB program (2015-16). Further, the NUN challenged the government to give priority to the health sector and that funds should not be made into an issue in addressing the health needs of its citizens.
NUN, while highlighting the State TB program report, said the 10,195 cases of regular TB, 248 cases of MDRTB and one case of XDRTB as reported between 2013-15 indicated a high proportion of TB infection in the state.
In this regard, the NUN said the government needs to seriously and earnestly put focus on addressing the ‘epidemic’ burden before the situation goes out of control.
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