The National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) is making significant strides toward India’s ambitious target of eradicating tuberculosis (TB) by 2025, according to recent statements by Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel.

Notable Achievements:

Decline in TB Incidence: India has observed a 17.7% reduction in TB incidence, decreasing from 237 cases per 100,000 population in 2015 to 195 per 100,000 in 2023.

Reduction in Mortality: TB-related deaths have declined by 21.4%, from 28 per lakh population in 2015 to 22 per lakh in 2023.

Increase in Case Notifications: The NTEP reported a record high in TB case notifications, with 25.5 lakh cases in 2023 and 26.07 lakh in 2024, reflecting improved detection and reporting mechanisms.

Innovative Strategies and Technological Advancements:

Under Minister Patel’s leadership, the NTEP has embraced several innovations to enhance TB detection and treatment:

Handheld X-Ray Devices: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has validated three indigenous handheld X-ray devices, facilitating TB screening in remote and vulnerable populations. These portable devices offer advantages such as low weight and reduced radiation exposure, and are currently utilized in a 100-day accelerated program.

Artificial Intelligence and Molecular Diagnostics: The integration of artificial intelligence and advanced molecular diagnostic tools has improved the accuracy and speed of TB detection, aiding in timely intervention and treatment.

Community Engagement and Support:

The NTEP emphasizes community participation and patient support to ensure comprehensive care:

Ni-kshay Mitra Initiative: This program provides additional nutritional, diagnostic, and vocational support to TB patients and their households, aiming to mitigate the socioeconomic impact of the disease.

100-Day TB Elimination Campaign: Launched as a decisive step towards ending TB, this campaign focuses on active case finding, awareness generation, and community mobilization.

Collaborative Efforts:

India’s commitment to TB eradication is further strengthened through international collaborations:

India Innovation Summit 2025: This summit aims to catalyze the development and implementation of innovative technologies, strategies, and community engagement models to accelerate the fight against TB. It brings together researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders to foster knowledge exchange and chart a decisive course towards India’s ambitious TB elimination target.

The NTEP’s comprehensive approach, combining technological innovation, community engagement, and robust healthcare strategies, underscores India’s unwavering commitment to achieving a TB-free nation by 2025.