Bhubaneswar: Odisha has made strides to eradicate Tuberculosis (TB) from the state. The state, which has a high prevalence of this highly contagious disease, is today ranked second in the country for steps taken for its eradication.
The state government wants to eradicate TB in Odisha by the end of 2025. This alligns with the plans of the Centre that wants a TB-free India by the end of this year.
World Tuberculosis (TB) Day was observed on Monday. It marks the completion of seven years of India’s ‘TB Free India’ Campaign that began in 2018. TB is an airborne disease affecting the lungs and other organs. India’s dedicated efforts led to a 17.7% decline in TB cases between 2015 and 2023, earning global recognition in WHO’s 2024 World Tuberculosis Report.
There was a misconception that TB affects only the aged population from marginalized sections of society. Awareness has helped in spreading the message that the disease can affect people of all ages and classes. Drug-resistant TB is a major challenge. According to reports, only about two out of five drug-resistant TB patients received treatment in 2023.
Odisha has the second-highest number of TB cases in India after Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh. Health department data shows that 2-3% of TB patients in Odisha discontinue treatment midway. This is another challenge.
The health ministry announced the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) for early detection, effective treatment, and prevention. Under the programme, TB patients are monitored via the Ni-kshay portal, with Ayushman Arogya Mandir and ASHA workers ensuring treatment adherence. Community-based supporters assist patients, and incentives are provided to encourage treatment.
Union Minister Anupriya Patel stated that India recorded its highest-ever TB cases in 2023 and 2024, with 25.5 lakh and 26.07 lakh cases, respectively. Despite the rise, incidence rates fell from 237 per lakh in 2015 to 195 per lakh in 2023, and TB deaths dropped by 21.4%. Missing TB cases also declined from 15 lakh to 2.5 lakh. As of 2025, India has reported 5,77,712 TB cases, with Uttar Pradesh leading with 1,58,756 cases.
How to Reduce Risk:
Get Vaccinated – The BCG vaccine helps protect against TB, especially in children. So, ensure that children receive this vaccine.
Cover Your Mouth – Always cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of germs.
Maintain Good Hygiene – Wash your hands regularly with soap and keep your surroundings clean.
Avoid Close Contact – Stay away from people who have active TB, especially in crowded or enclosed spaces.
Improve Ventilation – Open windows and let fresh air in to reduce the spread of TB bacteria.
Eat a Healthy Diet – A strong immune system helps fight infections, so eat nutritious food.
Don’t Smoke or Drink Excessively – Smoking and excessive alcohol weaken your lungs and immune system.
Complete Your TB Treatment – If diagnosed, take your medication properly to prevent spreading TB to others.
Get Regular Check-ups – If you have a persistent cough, fever, or weight loss, see a doctor for an early diagnosis.
Eliminating TB by 2025 is a challenge, given the fact that India still accounts for over a quarter of the total number of global cases. Despite progress, sustained efforts and stronger interventions are crucial to achieve this goal.
