According to the RNTCP guidelines for Category I patients (new smear-positive pulmonary TB), what was the total duration of anti-tuberculosis treatment?

Explanation

For new smear-positive pulmonary TB cases (Category I) under RNTCP, the standard treatment regimen was 6 months. This consisted of an intensive phase of 2 months with HRZE (Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Pyrazinamide, Ethambutol) followed by a continuation phase of 4 months with HRE (Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Ethambutol). This regimen was typically administered intermittently (thrice weekly) in the RNTCP era, before the shift to daily regimens under NTEP.