Technical Assistance to State TB Program

Apart from the core routine activities of Training and SM&E, STDCs need to support the state by technically guiding the state TB program. 

1. Prepare state strategy plan for TB Elimination: STDCs need to plan strategies & support the state to adopt state specific strategies and program implementation approaches taking into consideration the TB epidemiology and health system strength.

2. Implementation of new interventions: Based on evolving program guidelines issued by the Central TB Division, STDCs need to support the state in implementation of new interventions in the state. 

3. Support in preparing the annual PIP: The STDC based on the existing performance of the state and the needs identified based on the TB Elimination strategy of the state, needs to support the state and districts to prepare the annual Program Implementation Plan (PIP) in such a way that the state and district NTEP is adequately resourced. 

4. Advocate: The STDC needs to advocate and obtain resources required for the state level strategy. Advocacy may be directed toward sources such as the National Health Mission (NHM), State Health System, Government representatives and Panchayati Raj Institutions, private and corporate entities, and even to the civil society and community at large.

5. TB Surveillance: The STDC should have a clear understanding of the status of the TB burden and epidemiology of the state through continuous ongoing surveillance activities. This may include activities such as conducting surveys, analysis of program data and additionally collected data as per need. Based on this the state may apply for Sub-National Disease free certification.

6. Generate evidence for program interventions in alignment with state strategy through suitable Operational Research, and by evaluating, documenting and disseminating best practices by publishing related reports and periodicals.  

7. Support Sub-national certification for TB Elimination: STDCs need to support the sub-national certification process.

These activities related to these need to be planned by the STDCs each year and budgeted in the annual PIP.  Further details of each technical activity is provided below.