The importance of GPs in various aspects of TB control is emphasised. The majority of patients who go to a State Clinic have typically been under care of a GP at one stage or another. In an urban clinic in Uttar Pradesh, an average of about 10-15% of patients are in the first stage, 20-30% in the second stage and 55-70% in the third stage of TB. These figures have held constant for the past 15 years. Given this scenario, it is considered that unless the co-operation between the clinic doctor and the GP improves, there could not be any improvement in these figures (which are similar to figures in the rural areas). The GP is equally important at the last stage of TB, when only he/ she can instill the necessary discipline in the patient to continue regular treatment. GPs can be useful in providing notification of TB, in regulating the sale and dispensation of anti-TB drugs, treating patients in domiciliary care, participating in mass radiography and contact exams. Several advantages that would accrue from a liaison between the clinic doctor and the GP are listed and it is suggested that registered Vaids and Hakims in rural areas be enlisted to help the Government.