TB Mortality

DECLINING TB BURDEN IN INDIA : SIGNIFICANCE & IMPLICATIONS

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs (Pulmonary TB) but also other organs (Extrapulmonary TB). India has made remarkable progress in TB control, with incidence declining by 21% per year and mortality dropping from 28 to 21 per lakh population between 2015 and 2024. Key measures driving this success include early diagnosis through molecular tests, free treatment under the National TB Elimination Program, community screening campaigns like TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, and digital monitoring via the Nikshay portal. The decline not only reduces transmission and deaths but also lessens socioeconomic burden, improves productivity, and contributes to global TB elimination goals.