In a significant step towards achieving a TB-free India, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the ICMR–National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis (NIRT), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and the Central Council for Research in Siddha (CCRS), Ministry of Ayush, in Chennai on May 19, 2026. The MoU was formally inked by Prof. Dr. N. J. Muthukumar, Director General, CCRS, and Dr. Srinath Satyanarayana, Director, ICMR–NIRT. This strategic partnership focuses on advancing integrative strategies against Tuberculosis through clinical trials, innovative drug development, capacity building, and nutritional support within the traditional Siddha system of medicine.

Following the ceremony, a technical session on the "Scope of Siddha system of medicine for the TB elimination in India" was held in connection with the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan–100 days campaign. Dr. A. Rajendra Kumar, Research Officer, CCRS, welcomed the gathering and highlighted the upcoming pipeline projects. In his keynote address by Prof. Dr. N. J. Muthukumar, Director General, CCRS emphasized the scope and strength of Siddha medicine in TB elimination along with the significance of Energy Dense Nutritional supplement initiatives and the special address by Dr. Srinath Satyanarayana, Director, ICMR – NIRT, Chennai explicated on the areas of integration in TB diagnosis, prevention, nutritional supplement and post TB - lung sequel. 

The technical session featured plenary lectures by domain experts covering TB elimination priorities, shortened regimens, rehabilitation, the role of Siddha immune modulators, and the in vitro anti-TB potential of Siddha drugs. Concluding with a vote of thanks by Dr. R. Rathinamala, Research Officer, SCRI, this collaboration promises enhanced research outcomes by integrating modern science with indigenous medicine to support India's TB elimination initiatives.

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