Is India’s Fight Against TB Fueled by Public Participation?
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlights the crucial role of public involvement in India's fight against tuberculosis (TB), emphasizing the significant progress made and the goal to eradicate TB by 2025. With collaborative efforts and intensified campaigns, the nation is making strides towards a TB-free future.
Key Takeaways
- Public participation is crucial for TB elimination.
- India aims for a TB-free future by 2025.
- Significant reductions in TB incidence and mortality rates.
- Intensified campaigns are enhancing community engagement.
- Collaboration among stakeholders is vital for success.
New Delhi, May 13 (NationPress) Public engagement is a key factor propelling India’s initiative to eradicate tuberculosis (TB), proclaimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a meeting on Tuesday to evaluate the nation’s TB elimination efforts.
“The movement has gained significant traction over recent years, thanks to active public involvement,” PM Modi shared in a post on X, the social media platform.
He further emphasized, “Our administration is dedicated to collaborating with all stakeholders to achieve a TB-free India,” following the meeting which included Union Health Minister JP Nadda and other notable leaders.
TB remains the most lethal infectious disease worldwide, with 10.8 million new cases and 1.25 million deaths reported in 2023.
India has made remarkable strides in combating TB cases and reducing mortality rates.
According to the WHO Global TB Report 2024, India has recorded a significant 17.7% reduction in TB incidence from 2015 to 2023, a rate more than double the global average decline of 8.3%.
TB-related deaths have also decreased by 21.4%, from 28 per lakh population in 2015 to 22 per lakh in 2023, as per official data.
Nonetheless, India accounted for 28 lakh TB cases in 2024, representing 26% of the global TB burden, the highest worldwide.
The nation also reported approximately 3.15 lakh TB-related deaths, constituting 29% of the global TB death toll.
India aims to eradicate TB by 2025, five years ahead of the global goal.
To hasten the fight against TB, the Health Ministry initiated a 100-day intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan in December last year, concluding on World TB Day, March 24.
The campaign focused on 455 high-priority districts across 33 States/UTs to speed up TB case detection, lower mortality rates, and prevent new infections.
With over 1.94 lakh awareness initiatives, the Jan Andolan engaged more than 33,000 elected representatives and 22 line ministries, demonstrating a comprehensive societal and governmental approach to TB elimination.
This initiative mobilized community support for effective nutritional aid through 1.05 lakh new Nikshay Mitras, distributing over three lakh nutrition food baskets.
Furthermore, more than 13.46 lakh Nikshay Shivirs were conducted nationwide, screening 12.97 crore vulnerable individuals for TB. This targeted strategy led to the identification of 7.19 lakh TB cases.
Additionally, 2.85 lakh asymptomatic TB cases were detected early, who would have otherwise gone unnoticed, according to the Health Ministry.
Point of View
It is evident that India's strategy to combat TB relies heavily on community participation and collaboration among various stakeholders. The government's commitment to achieving a TB-free India by 2025 demonstrates a proactive and inclusive approach towards public health, which is crucial in addressing such a pressing health crisis.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of TB in India?
India reported 28 lakh TB cases in 2024, representing 26% of the global TB burden, with a notable aim to eradicate TB by 2025.
How is public participation helping in the TB elimination campaign?
Public engagement has significantly boosted the TB elimination movement, leading to increased awareness and support in detecting and treating TB cases.
What are the recent statistics on TB deaths in India?
TB-related deaths in India have decreased by 21.4%, dropping from 28 per lakh population in 2015 to 22 per lakh in 2023.
What initiatives has the Indian government launched to combat TB?
The Indian government launched a 100-day intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan aimed at enhancing TB case detection and reducing mortality.
What is the significance of the WHO Global TB Report 2024 for India?
The WHO Global TB Report 2024 indicates a 17.7% decline in TB incidence in India from 2015 to 2023, highlighting the country's progress in the fight against TB.
