Union Health Minister JP Nadda Launches 'Josh' Teams for TB-Free India

Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, launched the 'Josh' (Joint Health Teams) under the 'TB-Free India Campaign' during a national event held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The primary objective of this initiative is to leverage the energy and reach of the youth to spread messages regarding the prevention, early diagnosis, and timely treatment of Tuberculosis (TB) within communities, while simultaneously reducing the social stigma associated with the disease.

Addressing the gathering, Shri JP Nadda stated that efforts to eliminate tuberculosis in India have now evolved from a traditional health program into a mass movement. He noted that according to the latest report from the World Health Organization (WHO), tuberculosis cases in India have declined by 21 percent, compared to a global decrease of 12 percent. Additionally, treatment coverage in India has risen to 92 percent, which is significantly higher than the global average of 78 percent.

The Health Minister clarified that the goal of TB elimination cannot be achieved through government intervention alone; it requires the active involvement of youth, citizens, and community participation. He explained that the 'Josh' initiative is being implemented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Ministry of Defence. In the first phase, these teams have been deployed across 55 districts in 11 states and union territories, with plans for a nationwide expansion in the future.

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, remarked on the occasion that India is one of the youngest countries in the world, and 'Josh' teams will utilize the potential of the youth to achieve the goal of TB elimination before the year 2030. He emphasized connecting youth with nation-building and social work through the 'My Bharat' platform.

The campaign also places a strong emphasis on the use of technology. During the event, a 'Josh Flipbook,' 'Josh Brochure,' and a dedicated 'Josh Team' feature on the 'TB-Free India App' were launched. Furthermore, 'Khushi Avatar,' an initiative by e-SANGINI, was introduced to provide services such as information on TB symptoms, treatment, and medication reminders in 12 Indian languages.

Each 'Josh' team will consist of five 'My Bharat' volunteers and five NCC (National Cadet Corps) cadets, led by a designated first-class officer at the block or ward level. These teams will work at the grassroots level through public relations to identify symptoms and link individuals to the healthcare system.

During the program, recognition was also provided to 67,933 panchayats across 697 districts that were declared tuberculosis-free in the year 2026. The event was attended by Delhi Government Health Minister Shri Pankaj Singh, Minister of State for Defence Shri Sanjay Seth, Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta, and several other Members of Parliament and senior officials.