India has recorded a 38% reduction in tuberculosis (TB) mortality since 2015, exceeding the global reduction of 35%, according to the findings highlighted in the World Health Organization's (WHO) Global Tuberculosis Report 2026.
The report, released on November 12, 2026, also highlights India's progress in TB treatment, with a treatment success rate of 94% among patients with drug-susceptible tuberculosis.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
India recorded a 38% reduction in estimated TB mortality since 2015.
The global reduction in TB mortality was 35%.
India's treatment success rate reached 94% among patients with drug-susceptible TB.
Estimated TB mortality declined from 28 to 18 deaths per lakh population between 2015 and 2025.
More than 25 crore people were brought within the ambit of intensified screening.
Over 11 crore chest X-rays and more than 3 crore molecular diagnostic tests were conducted.
According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India's estimated TB mortality rate declined from 28 deaths per lakh population in 2015 to 18 deaths per lakh in 2025.
The progress has been supported by interventions under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP), including proactive case detection, AI-enabled chest X-rays, rapid diagnostic tests, timely treatment, differentiated patient care and nutritional assistance.
Under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, more than 25 crore people were brought within the ambit of intensified TB screening between December 7, 2024, and November 8, 2026.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
Tuberculosis remains a significant public health challenge. Reducing mortality, improving treatment outcomes and identifying cases at an early stage are essential to controlling the disease. India's progress highlights the importance of accessible diagnostics, timely treatment and continued patient support.
During this period, more than 11 crore chest X-rays and over 3 crore molecular diagnostic tests were conducted. The screening activities identified 48.64 lakh new TB cases, including 14.97 lakh cases among people without symptoms.
The government has also strengthened nutritional and community-based support through initiatives such as the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana and Ni-kshay Mitra initiative.
The latest figures highlight India's progress in reducing TB mortality and expanding access to screening and treatment. Continued efforts in early diagnosis, effective treatment and patient support remain important to achieving the country's tuberculosis elimination objectives.
