• E. Thiruvalluvan
• M. Ramachandra
• C. Ponnuraja
• P. Palaniyandi
• C.Manogaran

1. Context and Conceptual Framework The Problem: India holds 24% of global tuberculosis (TB) cases, but 46% go unreported due to systemic gaps, structural clinic friction and social stigma. The Framework: To optimize the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP), the system must bridge the Etic (objective, systemic view) and Emic (subjective, community view) perspectives by mobilizing Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). 2. Methodology and Profiles Field Studies: Qualitative Focus Group Discussions (FGDs, n=52) and in-depth interviews (n=120) were held across four blocks. Cohorts: The study engaged PRI leaders, healthcare staff, TB patients (predominantly male, 35% unemployed due to illness), and the general public (93.8% rural, 62.5% female). 3. Key Findings and Friction Points Healthcare Status: Frontline Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam (MTM) home-care is highly respected, but local clinics suffer from understaffing and extreme wait times. Private emergency alternatives heavily drain family budgets, averaging ₹5,000 monthly. The DBT and DOTS Gaps: A critical blind spot exists in Palani block where TB awareness is virtually non-existent. Crucially, Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) funds are delayed until after treatment completion, failing to support active financial crises. Furthermore, zero general public respondents expressed interest in acting as DOTS providers. 4. Strategic PRI Mobilization Pathway Implementation: Future screening camps should integrate with 100-day workplace (MGNREGA) sites during morning hours to minimize livelihood disruption. Prerequisite: While PRI leaders are willing to dedicate 2 to 3 hours weekly, they-alongside village sanitary workers—must be systematically trained first to eliminate local stigma and run effective outreach.

PRI participation, TB Control, FGD, IDI, intervention strategies

"Decentralized governance in public health: Developing strategies to engage panchayat Raj Institutions (PRI) in Tuberculosis control", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 9, page no.b260-b267, September-2026, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2609131.pdf

"Decentralized governance in public health: Developing strategies to engage panchayat Raj Institutions (PRI) in Tuberculosis control", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 9, page no. ppb260-b267, September-2026, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2609131.pdf