Utilization of Nikshay Poshan Yojana scheme among tuberculosis patients registered in a designated microscopy center, Bangalore

Abstract

Background: Nutritional support plays an important role in the management of tuberculosis. To reduce malnutrition among those suffering from TB, the government of India started the Nikshay Poshan Yojana in 2018, offering a monthly incentive of INR 500 to each patient enrolled under the programme. Objective was to assess the utilization of financial benefits among tuberculosis patients registered under the scheme Nikshay Poshan Yojana. Methods: Descriptive study was conducted among 137 tuberculosis patients registered under Nikshay portal of designated microscopy center (DMC). Interview was conducted and obtained necessary information. Results: Among 116 responded tuberculosis patents, 83 (71.5%) received full and partly incentives throughout the course of treatment, among the beneficiary 61 (71.5%) were using their incentives for nutritional purpose. Conclusions: Beneficiaries under Nikshay Poshan Yojana received incentives but not on timely basis.