Rainbow TB Forum

The RTBF was formed in 2009 by a group of college students who were subjected to stigmatization while getting tested for TB in public hospitals in Virudhunagar Tamil Nadu, South India. They decided to stand for their rights and give a voice to the voiceless. Since its formation, RTBF has grown its wings to other districts and cities around Tamil Nadu. Nowadays, Rainbow TB Forum (RTBF) distinguishes itself as a network comprised exclusively of past and presently TB affected people. Our aims are improving health and wellbeing, by fostering conversation and further societal acceptance of those afflicted with TB through a community support network. The RTBF is unique in its strong focus on TB prevention, treatment compliance, care after cure and education campaigns to fight stigma associated with TB. The RTBF operates on the conviction that TB is not only a medical condition, but a magnet for social discrimination. For that reason, we are committed to take responsibility to fight against stigma and discrimination associated with TB. Our mission aligns with United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) and the government of India’s national strategy to end TB by 2025. Over the years we have made meaningful progress and we continue to fight TB from the grassroots level in a sustainable way, by creating support networks within local communities. Our membership numbers have grown significantly; in 2017 alone, we welcomed more than 800 new members. Our campaign continues to receive positive responses and more and more people are being reached.