Survivors Against TB (SATB), a collective led by TB survivors, experts, and advocates, have urged PM Modi to accelerate efforts to end TB in India before World TB Day on March 24. Despite India’s commitment to eliminate TB by 2025, the country still faces a significant burden of the disease, with millions affected and 400,000 deaths annually.
In a letter to PM Modi, SATB called for immediate action to improve access to free, accurate, and affordable TB diagnosis, especially in remote and marginalized communities. They also emphasized the need for investment in diagnostic facilities, mobile testing units, and access to rapid and molecular testing, along with high-quality drugs and shorter treatment regimens.
Ashna Ashesh, a public health professional, lawyer, and MDR TB survivor, highlighted ongoing challenges such as limited access to diagnosis and treatment, stigma, socioeconomic barriers, and out-of-pocket expenses that hinder progress in tackling TB effectively. SATB also recommended measures to prevent stock-outs in both public and private sectors and emphasized the importance of nutrition and mental health services for TB patients.
Chapal Mehra, Convenor of SATB, emphasized the importance of prioritizing the voices and needs of TB survivors in shaping policies and interventions to make significant strides towards ending TB in India. The collective’s appeal comes at a critical time as the country strives to meet its goal of eradicating TB by 2025, ahead of the global target of 2030.
