World Tuberculosis (TB) Day is observed on March 24 each year to raise awareness about tuberculosis and global efforts to eradicate it. The day marks the discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis—the bacterium responsible for TB—by Dr. Robert Koch in 1882.
India has made significant progress in its fight against TB, with a 17.7% decline in incidence from 2015 to 2023, according to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Tuberculosis Report 2024. This progress has gained international recognition. However, eliminating TB entirely remains a major challenge.
India’s Efforts to Eliminate TB
In 2018, the Indian government launched the “TB Free India Campaign”, setting an ambitious target to eliminate tuberculosis by 2025—five years ahead of the WHO’s global target. As part of this initiative, the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) has been implemented to ensure early detection, effective treatment, and prevention.
Under this program, TB patients are monitored through the Ni-Kshay portal, while Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and ASHA workers oversee treatment adherence. Community-based supporters assist patients throughout their recovery, and financial incentives encourage patients to complete their treatment.
Despite these efforts, India continues to report high TB numbers. Within the first 81 days of 2025, 5,77,712 TB cases were recorded. Uttar Pradesh led the count with 1,58,756 cases, followed by Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Bihar.
TB in Numbers: India & The Global Scenario
TB remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases worldwide. WHO data from 2023 shows that 1.25 million people died from TB, including 1,61,000 HIV-positive individuals. Additionally, an estimated 10.8 million people contracted TB in 2023, with only two out of five patients with drug-resistant TB receiving treatment.
Union Minister Anupriya Patel stated that although India reported its highest number of TB cases in 2023-24 (26.07 lakh cases), the mortality rate has decreased. The TB incidence rate dropped from 237 per lakh in 2015 to 195 per lakh in 2023, reflecting a 17.7% decline. Additionally, TB deaths fell by 21.4% in the same period.
Is India on Track to Eliminate TB by 2025?
To achieve the WHO’s TB elimination target—fewer than one case per million people—India still has a long way to go. Data from the Ni-Kshay portal reveals that nearly 6 lakh cases have already been recorded in 2025, signaling the ongoing challenge.
To accelerate progress, India has introduced several key initiatives:
- AI-powered TB detection (DeepCXR): Developed by ICMR & the Institute of Plasma Research, this tool analyzes chest X-rays to improve early diagnosis.
- Shorter, safer drug-resistant TB treatments: These have improved success rates from 68% in 2020 to 75% in 2022.
- TB Mukt Bharat 100-Day Intensified Campaign: Launched in December 2024, this initiative focuses on 455 high-priority districts to detect cases early, ensure timely treatment, and provide nutritional support.
Expert Insights: The Global Call to Action
Dr. Sania Nishtar, CEO of Gavi, and a leading global health expert, highlights the need for sustained commitment in the fight against TB.
“Tuberculosis has been infecting people for at least 70,000 years and remains one of the world’s biggest killers. The world now stands on the cusp of having a new vaccine against this ancient disease, but we need sustained commitment to ensure that when it is approved, it will reach those in greatest need.”
How to Protect Yourself from TB
While TB remains a global health threat, certain preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
1. Get Vaccinated (BCG Vaccine)
The BCG vaccine is the most effective way to prevent severe TB, particularly in children.
2. Ensure Proper Ventilation
Since TB spreads through airborne droplets, improving airflow by keeping windows open and avoiding crowded spaces can lower the risk of transmission.
3. Strengthen Your Immunity
A strong immune system can fight infections effectively. A balanced diet rich in Vitamin C, D, Zinc, and Protein boosts immune defenses.
4. Practice Respiratory Hygiene
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. If you work in healthcare settings, using N95 masks offers additional protection.
5. Avoid Close Contact with TB Patients
TB is highly contagious in enclosed settings. If you live or work around someone with TB, ensure they receive proper medical treatment and follow hygiene guidelines.
6. Detect & Treat TB Early
Early diagnosis is crucial. If you experience persistent cough, weight loss, fever, or night sweats, seek medical attention. Completing the full course of TB medication is essential to prevent drug resistance.
7. Maintain Lung Health
Regular exercise, yoga, and breathing exercises strengthen lung function and reduce susceptibility to infections.
8. Reduce Exposure to Polluted & Crowded Areas
People living in overcrowded and poorly ventilated spaces face a higher risk of TB transmission. Wearing masks and maintaining distance can help lower this risk.
Final Thoughts: The Road Ahead
India has made notable progress in its fight against TB, but achieving elimination by 2025 remains a major challenge. Continued investment in research, treatment, and public health initiatives is crucial to sustaining progress.
As we observe World TB Day 2025, the message is clear: Prevention, early detection, and sustained commitment are key to defeating this ancient disease once and for all.
