Source: TH
Context:
According to the WHO Global TB Report 2025, India has recorded a 21% annual decline in tuberculosis (TB) incidence between 2015 and 2024, nearly double the global average of 12%. This decline is among the highest globally, reflecting India’s robust strategies in TB detection, treatment, and elimination.
Key Highlights:
- 21% annual decline in TB incidence (2015–2024) in India, almost double the global average (12%).
- One of the fastest declines worldwide, showcasing India’s strong TB elimination strategy.
- Significant improvements in early detection, digital reporting, diagnostics, and treatment outcomes.
What is Tuberculosis (TB)?
- Infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
- Primarily affects the lungs (Pulmonary TB) but can also impact other organs (Extra-Pulmonary TB).
- Spread through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing.
- Preventable and curable with timely diagnosis and treatment.
India’s TB Control Strategies Driving Success
| Intervention | Key Features / Actions | Impact / Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Ni-kshay Digital Ecosystem | Real-time case reporting and monitoring through Ni-kshay Portal | Improved traceability of patients and medicine delivery |
| Active Case Finding & Community Screening | Door-to-door TB screening in high-risk districts; Involvement of ASHAs, local health workers, and TB Champions (cured patients) | Early detection of TB cases and enhanced community outreach |
| Strengthened Diagnostics | Expansion of CB-NAAT/Truenat molecular tests; Wider availability of chest X-ray and sputum testing units | Rapid, accurate diagnosis and timely treatment initiation |
| Drug-Resistant TB Management | Adoption of shorter MDR-TB regimens (BPaL, BPaLM); Focus on drug susceptibility testing (DST) | Effective management of drug-resistant TB cases |
| Nutrition Support – Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana | Monthly ₹500 DBT support to TB patients | Improved treatment adherence and nutritional recovery |
Challenges That Still Remain
- High TB burden in densely populated, low-income areas.
- Rising drug-resistant TB (DR-TB) cases.
- Nutritional deficiencies and comorbidities like diabetes help disease progression.
- Migration and urban slum clusters complicate continuous treatment.
Government’s Target
- TB-Free India by 2025, five years ahead of the global target (2030).
- WHO report indicates substantial progress but highlights the need for consistent last-mile delivery and better management of DR-TB.
