India Intensifies Drive to Eliminate Hepatitis as a Public Health Challenge by 2030

Summary:
India is strengthening its efforts to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030 through the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP). The initiative provides free screening, diagnosis, and treatment for Hepatitis B and C while integrating prevention and care with existing national health programmes. By expanding services from district hospitals to primary healthcare centres and leveraging affordable medicines and existing infrastructure, the government aims to improve access to care, raise awareness, and achieve its hepatitis elimination target. 

India is intensifying its nationwide campaign against hepatitis through the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP), which is working towards eliminating the disease as a public health concern by 2030. The initiative follows a comprehensive health system strategy and has been aligned with multiple national healthcare programmes to strengthen prevention efforts while ensuring free testing and treatment for those affected.

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver and can result from hepatitis viruses, other infections, excessive alcohol consumption, certain medications, toxic substances, or autoimmune disorders. Among the five major hepatitis viruses—A, B, C, D, and E—Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are the leading causes of long-term liver conditions, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. To address this burden and support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the Government of India introduced the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme in 2018, providing nationwide screening and treatment services.

The programme combines preventive, awareness, and treatment measures to improve public understanding of hepatitis, expand access to healthcare services, and ensure timely diagnosis and care. As part of these efforts, free diagnostic facilities and medicines for Hepatitis B and C are available through the public health system.

To broaden its reach, the government has incorporated hepatitis prevention and management into several existing national health initiatives. Universal screening and treatment for Hepatitis B and C are being offered across the country, supported by efficient use of local resources, affordable generic medicines, and established healthcare infrastructure. Services are also being extended from district hospitals to primary healthcare facilities, making testing and treatment more accessible. These measures reflect the government’s commitment to inclusive healthcare and its objective of eliminating hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.