About

• Under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana, the government provides financial help to Tuberculosis (TB) Patients for their treatment. 
• The government provides Rs 500/- per month financial incentive to TB patients for their treatment and food. 
• Nikshay Poshan Yojana Money will be transferred directly to the patient’s bank account. 

Why in News?

• The Union Health Ministry doubled the monthly nutrition support under the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana for tuberculosis patients under treatment from ₹500 to ₹1,000.

About TB

• Tuberculosis (TB), caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, is an ancient disease primarily affecting the lungs but can also impact other organs. 
• It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. 
• Common symptoms include a persistent cough, fever, weight loss, and loss of appetite. 
• TB is particularly prevalent in developing countries, where individuals with compromised immune systems are at higher risk.
• Treatment follows the Directly Observed Treatment Short-course (DOTS) strategy, requiring at least six months of medication. 
• The BCG vaccine is the only licensed vaccine for prevention, offering effective protection against severe TB in children.
• The National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) aims to eliminate TB in India by 2025, aligning with the WHO’s End TB Strategy.