World Tuberculosis Day observed on 24 March 2026 with the theme Yes! We can end TB

Key facts

• World Tuberculosis Day is observed annually on 24 March to raise global awareness about the infectious disease.
• The theme for World Tuberculosis Day 2026 is Yes! We can end TB, emphasizing political will, increased funding, and community participation.
• The date commemorates 24 March 1882, when Dr Robert Koch discovered Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes the disease.
• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 3,500 people die from tuberculosis and approximately 30,000 fall ill every day globally.
• India carries the highest share of the global tuberculosis burden and implements the National TB Elimination Programme to combat the disease.
• Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus serves as the Director-General of the WHO.
• The National TB Elimination Programme in India utilizes nutrition initiatives and digital tracking to improve treatment adherence.