In a decisive step toward eliminating tuberculosis (TB) from the nation, the national launch of ‘JOSH’ (Joint Squad for Health) took place today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
The initiative aims to harness the boundless energy, enthusiasm, and social connectivity of India’s youth power, integrating them actively into the national TB eradication campaign to strengthen public participation at the grassroots level.
The high-profile inauguration was graced by Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of State for Defence Shri Sanjay Seth, and Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta, alongside numerous senior ministers, members of parliament, and dignitaries.
Joining virtually from Odisha, State Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling participated in the proceedings alongside the State Health Secretary and departmental directors stationed at the Kharavela Nagar conference hall.
Mobilising Youth and Grassroots Teams
In its first phase, the JOSH program will roll out across 55 districts spanning 11 states. These dynamic teams will comprise senior officials, My Bharat volunteers, and NCC cadets. Operating actively at the block and ward levels, JOSH teams will spread vital awareness about TB symptoms, prevention, and treatment, transforming the battle against the disease into a vibrant mass movement (Jan Andolan).
Highlighting the success of community-driven models, leaders noted that across 2026, 67,933 village panchayats across 697 districts have achieved formal recognition as TB-free panchayats. The JOSH teams are expected to build upon this momentum by deeply embedding youth participation at the village level.
Technological Integration with AI Chatbot ‘Khushi’
To amplify community engagement and provide real-time information, an Artificial Intelligence chatbot avatar named ‘Khushi’ was also unveiled during the event. This tech-driven tool is designed to enhance public awareness and community involvement under the Ni-kshay framework.
Odisha’s Strong Healthcare Performance
Odisha continues to demonstrate exceptional performance in national healthcare metrics, securing notable positions in the Ni-kshay Poshan Abhiyan (2025–2026):
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3rd Place in the Ni-kshay Poshan Abhiyan and Preventive Treatment categories.
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2nd Place in overall TB Care.
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Outstanding performance in NAT testing, high-risk village mapping, distribution of nutritional kits, and proactive X-ray screenings for asymptomatic individuals.
With the launch of JOSH and the integration of AI tools, India moves closer to fulfilling the vision of a healthier, tuberculosis-free future through collective leadership, youth power, and community mobilisation.
