India’s Progress and Challenges Under the National TB Elimination Programme

India’s National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) is ambitiously targeting TB elimination by 2025, a goal critical for public health and relevant to UPSC GS Paper 2 (Governance, Polity, Social Justice). Despite notable progress, challenges persist due to the high burden and drug resistance. Last Updated: 2025-11-17

Key Facts About India's National TB Elimination Programme

• 10.7 million people fell ill with TB globally in 2024.
• India accounts for 25% of global TB cases.
• Treatment coverage improved from 53% in 2015 to 92% in 2024.
• TB mortality rate decreased from 28 to 21 per lakh.
• 90% treatment success rate under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
• India diagnosed 26.18 lakh TB cases in 2024.
• AI-enabled tools and molecular testing enhanced early diagnosis.
• BPaLM regimen reduces treatment duration for drug-resistant TB.

India's Public Health Challenge and Global Commitment

TB elimination is a critical component of India's public health strategy, aligning with global health goals and India's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The country’s efforts are pivotal in reducing the global TB burden, given that India accounts for a significant portion of cases. Enhanced treatment success rates and innovative diagnostic tools are key to achieving these targets.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan: Aims to eliminate TB by 2025 with a focus on early diagnosis and treatment.
• National Strategic Plan for TB Elimination: Provides a roadmap for TB elimination with specific targets and strategies.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 2: Governance, Polity, Social Justice - Public health policies and their implementation.
• GS Paper 3: Science and Technology - Role of AI and molecular tools in healthcare.
• Prelims: Questions on TB statistics, government schemes, and health targets.
• Mains: Analytical themes on public health challenges, policy effectiveness, and innovation in healthcare.

FAQ Section

• What is the National TB Elimination Programme?
  The National TB Elimination Programme aims to eliminate tuberculosis in India by 2025 through improved diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.
• Why is TB elimination important for India?
  TB elimination is crucial as India bears 25% of the global TB burden, impacting public health and economic productivity significantly.
• What are the key features of the NTEP?
  Key features include enhanced treatment coverage, AI-enabled diagnostics, and financial support for patients, with a target of eliminating TB by 2025.