India Leads Global TB Fight, Faces WHO Elimination Challenges

India has been leading the global battle against tuberculosis (TB), implementing various strategies to eradicate the disease. However, despite considerable progress, the country still faces challenges in meeting the World Health Organization’s (WHO) TB elimination targets.

Historical Overview

India's TB control efforts began in 1962 with the launch of the National Tuberculosis Program (NTP), initially focusing on BCG vaccinations. In 1997, the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP) was introduced, incorporating the Directly Observed Treatment Short-course (DOTS) strategy to improve treatment adherence and success rates. By 2005, the RNTCP achieved nationwide coverage. In 2020, the program was renamed the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP), setting a more ambitious goal of eradicating TB by 2025.

Current Situation and Challenges

Despite these efforts, India continues to bear around 27% of the global TB burden, with an incidence rate of 210 per 100,000 people in 2021. The country also faces a significant challenge with drug-resistant TB, including Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR) and Extensively Drug Resistant (XDR) TB.

Key Initiatives

• Nikshay Poshan Yojana: Launched under the National Health Mission, this program provides ₹500 per month to each notified TB patient to support their nutritional needs during treatment.
• Private Sector Involvement: Recognizing the important role of the private sector in TB care, the NTEP has formed partnerships to enhance treatment adherence and improve case reporting.

Way Forward

To meet WHO’s TB elimination targets, India must focus on several key areas:

• Improved Diagnostics: Utilizing AI-assisted handheld radiology and other advanced diagnostic tools can help with early detection and improve treatment outcomes.
• New Therapeutic Agents: Speeding up the development and availability of more effective anti-TB drugs is crucial to combat drug-resistant strains.
• Public Awareness and Education: Raising awareness about TB symptoms, available treatments, and the importance of completing the full course of treatment will help reduce stigma and improve adherence.