India Brings Down TB Death Toll, Accelerates Nationwide Drive to Eliminate Tuberculosis

New Delhi, March 24 (TNA) On World TB Day, India’s progress in combating Tuberculosis (TB) highlights a strong and determined national effort. Once responsible for nearly 450,000 deaths annually in the country, TB-related fatalities have now reduced to around 330,000 per year or roughly 23 deaths per 100,000 population, reflecting significant improvement in prevention and treatment strategies.

A major driver of this progress is the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP), which focuses on early detection, effective treatment, and prevention. Additionally, initiatives such as the PM TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan have strengthened community participation, improving patient support through nutritional aid and awareness campaigns.

Advanced diagnostic technologies and shorter, more effective treatment regimens have further improved recovery rates. Millions have been screened, and timely interventions have helped reduce the disease burden across states.

However, challenges such as drug-resistant TB and gaps in awareness still remain. Despite this, India is steadily moving towards its ambitious goal of eliminating TB. With sustained policy efforts, innovation, and public participation, the country is on a promising path to defeat one of its oldest public health challenges.