The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recent report on tuberculosis (TB) sheds light on India’s significant progress in addressing its TB burden. Over the past eight years, the country has reduced undiagnosed cases, achieving treatment coverage for over 85% of those suspected to have TB in 2023. This success is vital, as TB remains deadly—more than 50% of undiagnosed cases are fatal. India’s effective interventions, like shortened treatment regimens, have also helped manage multi-drug resistant TB. WHO data shows India reduced TB incidence by 18% over eight years, more than double the global average decline. However, the pace remains insufficient to meet the ambitious goal of TB eradication by 2025.
India’s battle with TB, despite this progress, faces persistent challenges that threaten the likelihood of total elimination. Malnutrition remains a formidable barrier, with poor diet contributing to 35-45% of new cases annually. Undernourished individuals lack the immune strength to resist the infection, and TB patients facing malnutrition have higher mortality risks. The government has implemented a nutritional support scheme for TB patients, which has expanded coverage significantly, yet funding remains inadequate to meet the full needs of impoverished patients. Alarmingly, over one-fifth of TB-infected individuals still do not receive this nutritional support.
Compounding this issue is the disparity in healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural and underserved regions, where access to diagnostics and quality treatment remains limited. Awareness about TB symptoms and treatment protocols also lags, particularly in remote areas. Many cases go undetected until the infection is advanced, further complicating containment efforts. Health workers, already strained, struggle to provide the sustained follow-up essential for successful TB treatment and prevention.
Adding to these barriers is the social stigma surrounding TB. Misconceptions lead to isolation, discrimination, and fear, which deter patients from seeking early treatment and adhering to rigorous medication schedules. This stigma undermines public health efforts and worsens the cycle of disease and poverty. To overcome these challenges, India must intensify awareness campaigns, particularly in rural areas, and strengthen partnerships with NGOs that work closely with affected communities.
While India’s TB control achievements are commendable, they highlight the complexity of tackling the disease. A comprehensive strategy addressing socio-economic, nutritional, and infrastructure gaps is crucial for a sustainable victory. The government needs to amplify its nutrition support program, invest more in healthcare infrastructure, and strengthen awareness and engagement efforts. Without a multi-faceted approach, the goal of TB eradication by 2025 will remain out of reach.
The WHO report emphasizes that while strides have been made, India’s journey to a TB-free future requires a deeper, all-encompassing commitment.