Elimination of Tuberculosis in India by 2025
In 2018, the Indian government set an ambitious target to eradicate tuberculosis (TB) by 2025, which is five years ahead of the global target. Despite progress, recent reports and surveys suggest that the country is not on track to achieve this goal.
Current Status and Progress
- TB Cases in 2024: India recorded over 27 lakh TB cases.
- Reduction in Incidence: A 21% reduction in TB incidence since 2015.
- Decline in TB Deaths: A 28% decline over the past nine years.
Global Context and India's Role
- Globally, TB incidence decreased by 12% from 2014 to 2025.
- India's healthcare system has improved significantly, diagnosing over 80% of estimated cases, compared to 50% in 2015.
Challenges and Treatment Advances
- Increased detection has led to a higher number of patients needing care, many with multidrug-resistant TB.
- BPaLM Regimen: This initiative reduces treatment time for multidrug-resistant TB by six months.
- Patient non-compliance with therapy remains a significant challenge.
Next Steps and Recommendations
- Research Insights: Pollution exacerbates TB outcomes, and diabetes increases vulnerability.
- The WHO report highlights the need to build on successes, identify gaps, and address them effectively.