END TB initiative - involving youth - challenges and solutions.

WHO has given a special call to involve youth in END TB initiative. Involvement of youth, especially in the medical fraternity, in the TB control activities can ensure we reach our goal of ending TB in India by 2025. This study was planned to recruit and monitor young volunteers from medical colleges of Andhra Pradesh. 183 volunteers were recruited from 15 medical colleges and were tasked to spread awareness among general public. Work of these volunteers was monitored via Whatsapp group chats and videoconferencing. 4 follow-up meetings were held via videoconferencing and various hurdles and challenges were discussed. Major challenges faced included lack of physical meetings due to COVID-19 pandemic, which adversely affected their motivation and monitoring activities. Increased involvement from medical colleges, regular telecommunication and meetings can improve the work and motivation of these volunteers.