World TB Day 2023, with the theme 'Yes! We can end TB!', aims to inspire hope and encourage high-level leadership, increased investments, faster uptake of new WHO recommendations, adoption of innovations, accelerated action, and multisectoral collaboration to combat the TB epidemic.
This year is critical, with opportunities to raise visibility and political commitment at the 2023 UN High-Level Meeting on TB. The spotlight of World TB Day will be on urging countries to ramp up progress in the lead-up to the 2023 UN High-Level Meeting on TB. WHO will also issue a call to action with partners urging Member States to accelerate the rollout of the new WHO-recommended shorter all-oral treatment regimens for drug-resistant TB.
World TB Day is observed annually on March 24 to raise awareness about TB and efforts to end the
global epidemic, marking the day in 1882 when the bacterium causing TB was discovered.
President Droupadi Murmu has urged all stakeholders to come together to achieve a TB free India. In her message on the eve of World Tuberculosis Day, President Murmu commended the Health Ministry for organizing the 'One World TB Summit' on Friday.
She said TB Day serves as an opportunity to raise public awareness about the adverse health, social and economic consequences of TB, and to accelerate efforts to put an end to the global TB epidemic.
TB affects millions all over the world. President said India's collective endeavour to combat TB is reflected in national campaign by organising equitable, affordable and accessible health care systems that will benefit all sections of the society.