India launches traditional Ayurveda with modern TB care regimens

India today announced world’s first-ever, landmark clinical study that will, for the first time globally, scientifically evaluate Ayurveda as an adjunct to standard Anti-Tuberculosis Treatment (ATT), with Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences; Minister of State in the PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, describing it as a unique convergence of modern biotechnology and traditional knowledge systems to address tuberculosis in a holistic and patient-centric manner.

Speaking on the occasion of World Tuberculosis Day, Dr. Jitendra Singh said India, which accounts for nearly 25% of the global TB burden, has registered a significant decline in incidence to about 187 cases per 100,000 population in 2024, reflecting a 21% reduction since 2015. Quoting Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, he said, “The decline in TB incidence is an outcome of India’s dedicated and innovative efforts. Through a collective spirit, we will keep working towards a TB-free India,” adding that this reflects the country’s steady movement in the right direction.

Dr. Jitendra Singh said India has adopted an ambitious and accelerated pathway towards TB elimination, strengthening early diagnosis, universal drug susceptibility testing, digital adherence technologies, and patient-centric care under the National TB Elimination Programme.(updated on 24th march 2026)