India has achieved a major public health milestone in its fight against tuberculosis (TB), with a 21% decline in TB incidence over the past decade. According to the World Health Organization’s Global TB Report 2025, this progress represents a historic victory and nearly doubles the global rate of decline.
India’s TB Victory: Key Statistics
The World Health Organization’s Global TB Report 2025 reveals impressive achievements in India’s tuberculosis control program:
TB Incidence Reduction:
- TB cases declined from 237 per lakh population in 2015 to 187 per lakh in 2024
- This 21% reduction is nearly double the global average decline of 12%
- India now demonstrates one of the steepest TB declines among high-burden countries
TB Mortality Reduction:
- TB-related deaths decreased from 28 per lakh population in 2015 to 21 per lakh in 2024
- This represents a 25% reduction in TB deaths over nine years
- Substantial progress in reducing fatal TB cases across the nation
Missing Cases: A Game Changer
One of the most significant achievements has been reducing “missing cases” — TB patients not identified by the national program:
- Missing cases reduced from 15 lakh (1.5 million) in 2015 to less than 1 lakh in 2024
- This dramatic reduction shows improved case detection and notification
- Better coverage of vulnerable populations and remote areas
- Integration of private sector with government TB control efforts
Government Initiatives Driving Success
Several landmark programs have contributed to India’s TB control success:
TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan:
- Launched in December 2024, this flagship mission screens vulnerable populations
- Screened over 19 crore (190 million) individuals across the country
- Detected 24.5 lakh TB patients, including 8.61 lakh asymptomatic cases
- Treatment success rate improved to 90%, exceeding the global average of 88%
Financial Commitment:
- Historic near ten-fold increase in government funding over the past 9 years
- Enhanced resources for diagnosis, treatment, and patient support
- Strengthened TB elimination infrastructure nationwide
Supporting Programs:
- Ayushman Arogya Mandirs: Integrated TB services with general health facilities
- Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana: Nutritional support for TB patients
- Ni-kshya Mitra Initiative: Provides diagnostic, nutritional, and vocational support
- Upfront molecular diagnostics and hand-held X-rays for early detection
India’s Global Context
Despite these achievements, India’s TB burden remains significant globally:
- India accounts for approximately 26-28% of all TB cases worldwide
- Still among the five countries with the highest TB burden
- However, India’s progress rate exceeds many developed nations
- The country is on track to achieve TB elimination targets by 2025
Challenges and Opportunities
Remaining Challenges:
- Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) management
- Reaching marginalized and vulnerable populations
- Reducing stigma associated with TB
- Addressing socio-economic factors contributing to TB
Path Forward:
- Continued screening of vulnerable groups and congregate settings
- Upfront molecular diagnostics for rapid case detection
- Comprehensive care including treatment, nutrition, and psychosocial support
- Prevention of community transmission through effective treatment
PM Modi’s Vision for TB-Mukt Bharat
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed these achievements as “remarkable momentum” towards realizing the vision of a TB-Mukt Bharat (TB-Free India). The government’s ambitious goal is to eliminate TB from India by 2025, aiming for:
- 80% reduction in TB incidence by 2025
- 90% reduction in TB mortality by 2025
- Zero catastrophic expenditure due to TB
Conclusion
India’s 21% decline in tuberculosis cases represents a testament to strong government commitment, effective public health policies, and integration of all stakeholders. With continued focus on early detection, comprehensive treatment, and patient support, India is well-positioned to achieve its TB elimination goals and inspire other nations in the global fight against tuberculosis.
