MoS Defence inspects Itki TB Sanatorium, promises revamp

PNS

RANCHI

Minister of State for Defence and Ranchi MP Sanjay Seth on Wednesday inspected the historic Itki TB Sanatorium on the outskirts of Ranchi and assured all possible support to strengthen its infrastructure and healthcare services, stressing that robust medical facilities are essential to achieving the Centre’s vision of a TB-free India.

During his visit, Seth reviewed the hospital’s healthcare infrastructure, medical services and patient facilities. He also held a meeting with officials to assess the institution’s current status and discuss measures to improve infrastructure and ensure the availability of essential resources.

Addressing officials after the inspection, Seth said the vision of a “TB-Free India” is a key priority of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the Centre is committed to achieving that goal by strengthening major tuberculosis treatment centres across the country.

He noted that the Itki TB Sanatorium, established in 1928, was once among the country’s most prominent tuberculosis treatment institutions, serving patients from across Jharkhand and neighbouring regions. However, he said the facility is now grappling with inadequate infrastructure, shortage of healthcare personnel and a lack of essential medical resources, causing hardship to patients.

Expressing concern over the deteriorating condition of the sanatorium, Seth said it was unfortunate that the hospital’s digital X-ray machine had remained non-functional since 2019, adversely affecting the diagnosis and treatment of TB patients.

“It is deeply concerning that such an important healthcare institution has been functioning without a working digital X-ray machine for several years. Seeing the present condition of the sanatorium is distressing,” he said.

The Minister directed officials to prepare a detailed proposal outlining the institution’s immediate and long-term requirements so that the necessary support could be extended through available resources.

He also assured that every effort would be made to restore the sanatorium’s former stature by upgrading its infrastructure and equipping it with modern healthcare facilities.

Seth said the goal of making Jharkhand TB-free could only be achieved by ensuring timely diagnosis, quality treatment, modern medical equipment and adequate healthcare facilities for every patient, adding that the Central government remained committed to supporting such initiatives.