"The Handbook on Advocacy, Communication, and Social Mobilization (ACSM) for RNTCP aims to provide momentum and build ACSM capacity by clearly describing the processes involved in planning and implementation of ACSM activities in support of TB control and prevention. It seeks to help the reader better understand the significance of ACSM in TB-control interventions under the Revised National TB Control Programme (RNTCP). The handbook provides practical guidelines and describes the ‘nuts and bolts’ of operational activities with examples of planning and implementing different ACSM programs and activities. The experience of assessing the ACSM scenario in five states, viz., Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Karnataka, and Meghalaya, conducted by IHBP during 2012, came useful in developing this handbook. This document remains a dynamic and living document that will be updated with inputs from the field during its operationalization at state and district levels. The handbook has been organized into seven parts: Part 1 of the handbook describes the background and context of TB-related ACSM in India and provides conceptual clarity on the strategy framework of ACSM as distinct but mutually supporting interventions for TB prevention and cure. Part 2 outlines the strategy and explains step-by-step processes of ACSM situation analysis to prepare robust, evidence-based program implementation plans (PIPs). Part 3 describes ACSM objectives, approach, and implementation plan. Part 4 discusses the selection of channels and messages based on the ‘strengths’ and ‘weaknesses’ of different channels to enable selection of costeffective channels/vehicles of message delivery to targeted audiences and design of appropriate messages. Part 5 describes the different tools that could be used for ACSM activities and preparation of PIPs at district and state levels as well as describes various ACSM activities with practical operational details for implementation. Part 5 outlines the processes and targeted staff for ACSM capacity building. Part 6 emphasizes the need for rigorous monitoring and evaluation (M&E) and provides simple guidelines for conducting M&E to make ACSM activities more effective in support of RNTCP." (About this handbook, page 9)