The nationwide shortage of essential drug-resistant tuberculosis medicines at DOTS centres, has severely affected the treatment of thousands of TB patients in the state. Consequently, Maharashtra has been forced to seek medicines from neighbouring states. While it is not yet clear which states will supply the medicines, some neighbouring states like Karnataka and Goa have low prevalence of TB. 

Gujarat also has low prevalence of TB compared to Maharashtra. We are in contact with other states that have low TB prevalence. The Central TB Division is also working to identify states that can provide us medicines,” said Dr Sunita Golait, state TB officer.