Comment on the situation of tuberculosis in India. What are the challenges and way ahead?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of tuberculosis (TB) cases worldwide increased in 2021 for the first time in decades.

Situation of TB in India:

• While the public sector is overburdened and deficient in infrastructure, the private sector has a history of using tests and treatments excessively. 
• Over 60% of all Indians receive care from the private sector at some point or another, according to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS). 
• Individuals with tuberculosis frequently endure isolation and prejudice within the health system, families, and communities, yet government attempts to combat stigma remain unequal, with occasional anti-stigma programmes. 
• Many TB patients experience mental health issues, which have an effect on their ability to continue treatment, from the time of diagnosis until after they have been cured.
• India’s new governmental attention on the TB illness, which kills over 1200 Indians every day, is encouraging, but its focus on including communities in this endeavour, although being a crucial requirement, remains inadequate and aimless. 
• International organizations and charitable organizations frequently assist these initiatives by deciding to offer TB survivors low-paying contracts in exchange for their participation in hazardous activities.

Government’s initiatives:

• Nikshay Poshan Yojana.
• TB Harega Desh Jeetega Campaign.
• The government is creating a nationwide effort to eradicate tuberculosis by the year 2025 by employing a “multi-sectoral and community-led” strategy. 
• The Ni-kshay Mitra programme aims to eradicate stigma and discrimination against persons with TB by offering them the vital social and nutritional care they need.

Way forward:

• Sincere efforts to improve the dependability and accessibility of our health systems. 
• It was also necessary to create faith in the healthcare system so the patient completes the treatment. 
• A greater number of labs, point-of-care testing, a secure drug pipeline, and access to novel medications are required. 
• Those who are impacted should also receive counseling and help from the government. 
• Every patient with a delayed diagnosis and delayed treatment spreads the infection to more people. To end this cycle, local governments should collaborate with local organizations to offer free assessments and treatments to all those who are affected.

Topics: GS-II: Social Sector Services Health