India reduced new tuberculosis (TB) cases by 21% between 2015 and 2024.
The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Global TB Report 2025 said the drop was nearly double the global average of 12%.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the milestone, calling it a reflection of India’s strong commitment to eliminating TB.
He urged citizens to sustain the momentum and continue working toward a TB-free nation.
India reduced TB incidence from 237 cases per 100,000 people in 2015 to 187 in 2024.
The National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) drove this significant improvement.
Treatment coverage climbed to over 92% in 2024, driven by expanded diagnostics, decentralised health services, and intensive community screenings.
Despite this success, India still bears the world’s largest TB burden, accounting for 25% of all new global cases in 2024.
Health officials credited the country’s progress to innovative measures like AI-enabled handheld X-ray machines and rapid molecular testing labs.
They said nutritional support schemes such as Nikshay Poshan Yojana help patients stick to their treatment.
PM Modi highlighted the importance of a whole-of-society approach, involving state governments, the private sector, and grassroots volunteers.
He urged stronger awareness campaigns in high-risk communities such as miners, construction workers, and residents of dense urban areas.
“TB is curable; there should be less fear and more awareness,” PM Modi said, encouraging people to undergo early screening and complete their treatment.
Experts acknowledged India’s achievements but warned that challenges like drug-resistant TB and undiagnosed cases could slow progress.
They called for sustained funding, innovation, and awareness to achieve complete elimination.
The Health Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening diagnostic infrastructure, expanding outreach, and enhancing nutritional and social support for TB patients.
Officials stressed that continuous collaboration among all stakeholders remains key to achieving lasting results.
India’s success story underscores how technology, community engagement, and political will can transform public health outcomes.
As the country aims to eliminate TB before the global 2030 target, the focus now shifts to maintaining momentum, bridging gaps, and ensuring no patient is left behind.
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