India Sees Progress in Battle Against Tuberculosis, Says Health Minister JP Nadda
Health Minister JP Nadda highlights Indias success in reducing tuberculosis cases and improving treatment rates in recent social media updates.
New Delhi, November 13 (Daily Kiran) : India is witnessing encouraging results in its fight against tuberculosis (TB), according to Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda. He shared the news via social media on November 13, highlighting significant progress in the nation’s battle against the disease.
Nadda pointed out that the World Health Organization’s Global TB Report 2026 reveals a 38% reduction in TB-related deaths in India since 2015. This decline surpasses the global average of 35%. Additionally, the country has achieved a treatment success rate of over 94%.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the fight against TB has transformed into a nationwide movement. This initiative emphasizes technology, community involvement, and patient-centered care.
Through the TB-Free India campaign, more than 250 million individuals have been screened rapidly. The campaign has conducted over 110 million chest X-rays and more than 30 million molecular tests, identifying 4.86 million TB cases, including nearly 1.5 million asymptomatic cases, allowing for timely treatment. The integration of AI-enabled diagnostics, nutritional support through the Nikshay Poshan Yojana, and the dedication of volunteers are enhancing every aspect of TB care.
Nadda reiterated the commitment to ensuring that no TB patient is left behind. With community engagement and a shared commitment, India aims to move closer to a TB-free future.
Last month, a significant step was taken to strengthen community participation in the fight against TB. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, along with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Ministry of Defence, launched the “JOSH” initiative (Joint Squad for Health). This pilot program involves 58,000 volunteers across 55 districts in 11 states. These volunteers will raise awareness about TB and encourage people to seek testing and treatment.
Nadda also noted a 21% decline in TB cases in India, with treatment coverage rising to 92%. The use of advanced technologies, including handheld X-rays, artificial intelligence, and nucleic acid tests (NAT), is becoming increasingly common in identifying TB cases.
