Health Ministry Reports Over 22.5 Crore Screenings in Fight Against Hepatitis

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced that India's hepatitis screening programme has reached a milestone of over 225 million people. The massive outreach includes antenatal testing, community camps and mobile units in remote areas.

These efforts are part of a broader plan to eradicate hepatitis B and C by 2030, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals. Free diagnostic kits and treatment subsidies have been made available nationwide, ensuring that cost does not hinder access.

In addition to screening, the programme offers safe blood transfusion services and addiction‑recovery counseling. The health secretary highlighted that more than 652 000 patients have already received free antiviral medication, a figure expected to rise as outreach expands.

Continued international collaboration and investment in health system capacity are deemed essential for achieving the 2030 elimination goal.