Recent Updates of the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program in India

Abstract

India bears one of the highest tuberculosis (TB) burdens globally, accounting for approximately 26% of the world's TB cases. The National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP), formerly known as the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP), has undergone significant transformations in recent years to align with global End TB strategies and India's ambitious goal to eliminate TB by 2025, five years ahead of the global target. This review examines the recent updates and strategic shifts in NTEP, including diagnostic innovations, treatment regimen modifications, digital health initiatives, private-sector engagement strategies, and community participation models. The program's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its recovery strategies are also discussed. While NTEP has made substantial progress in enhancing case detection, treatment success rates, and reducing catastrophic costs to patients, challenges remain in reaching missing cases, addressing drug resistance, ensuring sustainable financing, and integrating with broader health system reforms. The review concludes with reflections on future directions needed to achieve TB elimination in India by 2025.