March 25, 2000, Saturday
HEADLINE: World TB Day observed: Creating public awareness about TB emphasized
The World Tuberculosis Day was observed in the country as elsewhere in the world
yesterday. A colorful procession was brought out from the National Museum premises led by
the State Minister for Health and Family Welfare Prof Dr M Amanullah. The rally ended at
the Jatiya Press Club. At the end of the procession Prof Dr Amanullah spoke briefly on the
significance of the day. An advocacy meeting was held in the NIPSOM auditorium at 10 am.
Prof Dr M Amanullah was the chief guest. Acting Director General of the Directorate of
Health Dr ASM Moshiur Rahman presided. Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare Syed Alamgir Farouq Chowdhury and Additional Secretary Dhiraj Kumar Nath were
special guests. WHO Representative Dr W Hardjotanojo was the guest of honor. Director of
Primary Health Care and Disease Control and Line Director of ESP, Dr AM Zakir Hossain was
the main speaker. Deputy Director and Program Manager (CDC) Dr Md Belayet Hossain and
Deputy Program Manager (TB) Dr Anwara Khatun gave address of welcome. Prof Dr M Amanullah
focused on the prevailing TB situation in the country. He stressed on socio-economic
development alongside improved health care for combating TB. He said community clinic can
play an important role in controlling TB. He urged more NGO participation in the city
corporation areas in TB control activities. Syed Alamgir Farouq Chowdhury stressed the
need for involving the elected representatives of the local government in the TB control
program. Dhiraj Kumar Nath stressed on creating public awareness about combating TB. Dr W
Hardjotanojo assured continued cooperation of the WHO in controlling TB. The important
road islands of Dhaka city were decorated with festoons and banners.