Maharashtra Reports 10% of India’s TB Cases, Health Department Reveals Alarming Rise
Despite intensified efforts to curb tuberculosis (TB), Maharashtra has reported a worrying increase in cases, with the state now contributing to 10% of India’s total TB patients. Health department data reveals a persistent challenge in controlling the infectious disease, even as detection and treatment programs expand.
Alarming Statistics: Maharashtra’s TB Crisis Deepens
According to the latest health department reports, Maharashtra recorded 2,30,515 TB cases in 2024, up from 2,23,444 in 2023. The trend continues in 2025, with 39,705 new cases detected in just January and February—a concerning spike that underscores the disease’s persistent spread.
Globally, India bears 25% of the world’s TB burden, and Maharashtra’s disproportionate share highlights the state’s ongoing struggle with the disease.
Aggressive Detection Drives Yield Mixed Results
To combat the rising numbers, the state launched a 100-day TB detection campaign (December 7, 2024, to March 24, 2025) across 17 high-risk rural districts. By March 20, 2025, this initiative had identified 40,471 new TB patients.
Screening efforts have also intensified:
- 2024: 35.39 lakh suspected cases tested, 2.30 lakh confirmed
- Jan-Feb 2025: 7.54 lakh tested, 39,705 diagnosed
The state has deployed 80 digital handheld X-ray machines for faster diagnosis, alongside free sputum tests and microscopic examinations to improve detection rates.
Five-Year Trend Shows Troubling Trajectory
The latest health department statistics paint a concerning picture of TB’s relentless spread:
*First two months only
TB-Free Panchayat Initiative Shows Progress
Under the Central TB Division’s guidance, Maharashtra has been implementing the TB-Free Panchayat Abhiyan since 2023. The results so far:
- 2023: 2,251 villages declared TB-free
- 2024: 7,402 villages certified TB-free
While this marks progress, the rising caseload indicates that preventive measures must scale up further.
Why Is TB Still a Major Challenge?
Despite advancements in diagnostics and treatment, TB remains difficult to control due to:
✔ Delayed detection in rural areas
✔ Drug-resistant strains complicating treatment
✔ Inadequate public awareness leading to late diagnosis
Health officials emphasize early testing, complete treatment adherence, and community awareness as critical to breaking the transmission chain.
What’s Next?
With TB cases still climbing, Maharashtra’s health department is pushing for:
- Wider screening in urban slums and industrial areas
- Stronger follow-up to ensure treatment completion
- More aggressive awareness campaigns
The state’s battle against TB is far from over, but with sustained efforts, officials hope to reverse the trend in the coming years.
