Shillong: In a heart-warming display of compassion, Abha S. Nongrum, a seven-year-old from Meghalaya, has become the state’s youngest ‘Nikshay Mitra’ by pledging to combat tuberculosis (TB).
Nikshay Mitra is a title given to those who pledge support to TB patients under the Government of India’s National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP)
With a heart full of compassion, Abha, who studies in second grade at Little Flower School in Shillong, began saving a percentage of her pocket money, whether from her parents or relatives, to purchase nutritional packages for TB patients across Meghalaya.
She also plans to visit patients when possible to provide moral support alongside the food supplies.
“Little did she know that her small contribution could be the greatest blessing in someone’s life,” says her mother, beaming with pride.
Abha’s commitment to fighting TB is remarkable not just for her young age, but also for her understanding that proper nutrition is crucial for patient recovery.
The seven-year-old is also accomplished in sports, having won a silver medal in state-level Taekwondo competitions and claiming victory in a marathon at age five.
Abha isn’t alone in this fight. Across India, 253,809 Nikshay Mitras have stepped forward to support TB patients, with 314 in Meghalaya committed to assisting 2,327 patients.
Her involvement underscores the power of community participation, regardless of age, in public health efforts. Her case demonstrates that even seemingly small individual actions can significantly impact patients battling infectious diseases.
