India's hepatitis elimination drive gains momentum ahead of 2030 goal

Programme pushes toward elimination target

India's National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme is stepping up its efforts to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. The programme, which focuses on prevention, screening, and treatment, has become the backbone of the country's response to the disease. Health officials say the goal is ambitious but achievable if current momentum is sustained.

The initiative integrates hepatitis care into existing public health infrastructure. It aims to provide free diagnosis and treatment, particularly for hepatitis B and C, which account for the majority of the disease burden in India.

World Hepatitis Day observed in Bhubaneswar

World Hepatitis Day was observed in Bhubaneswar on July 28, with health workers and community leaders stressing the need to eliminate misinformation and stigma around the disease. Organisers said that many people still avoid testing and treatment due to fear of social discrimination. Awareness drives were held across the city to encourage early screening and to normalise conversations about liver health.

Public health experts at the event pointed out that stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to hepatitis elimination. They called for community-level engagement to change perceptions and ensure that those affected come forward for care without hesitation.

Nationwide activities mark the day

Across the country, several activities were organised to mark World Hepatitis Day. Ripon Buildings in Chennai were illuminated green, a visual reminder of the global commitment to end viral hepatitis. The gesture was part of a broader awareness campaign that included rallies, health talks, and free screening camps.

In Mohali, the Postgraduate Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (PILBS) announced a liver health camp scheduled for today. The camp will offer free consultations and diagnostic tests, with a focus on early detection of liver diseases, including hepatitis. Hospital authorities said such camps are crucial for reaching populations that may not otherwise access specialised care.

Progress and challenges

India has made significant progress in expanding hepatitis testing and treatment services under the national programme. The availability of generic drugs has brought down the cost of treatment considerably, making it possible to treat more patients within the public health system.

However, challenges remain. Awareness levels are still low in rural areas, and the supply chain for diagnostic kits and medicines needs to be strengthened. Health workers also face the task of tracking patients through the full course of treatment, which can be lengthy for hepatitis C.

What to watch next

As the 2030 deadline approaches, the focus will shift to scaling up screening in high-burden districts and ensuring that treatment is not interrupted. The success of the programme will depend on sustained political will, adequate funding, and the active participation of communities in removing the stigma that still surrounds hepatitis.