In a landmark achievement, India has been declared free of trachoma as a public health problem. This infectious eye disease, a leading cause of blindness, has been successfully eliminated through concerted efforts by the Indian government, healthcare workers and international organizations.
This milestone highlights India’s successful public health interventions, driven by strong government leadership, the dedication of ophthalmologists, and healthcare workers. Key initiatives included effective surveillance, timely diagnosis, and management of active trachoma cases, alongside surgical services for trichiasis.
Government of India started the trachoma control project in 1963 with help from WHO and UNICEF. In 1976, these initiatives were adopted within the framework of the National Program for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCBVI) and implemented in rural areas. In 2018, trachoma prevalence in India had reduced to 0.008%. Validation surveys in 2024 confirmed that the country had met elimination targets.
India’s achievement aligns with the WHO-recommended SAFE strategy, which focuses on Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvement. India now joins 19 other nations globally in achieving this milestone.
Despite elimination, post-validation surveillance is crucial to maintain progress and prevent resurgence. This includes trichiasis surgery, community awareness and promoting facial hygiene. India’s success is seen as an inspiration for other countries striving to eliminate trachoma and other neglected tropical diseases.
