India’s Remarkable Decline in Leprosy Prevalence
India has recorded a stunning public health achievement: a 99% drop in leprosy prevalence per 10,000 population and a 98% reduction in cases under treatment over the last 44 years. The government’s latest official statement underscores how concerted national efforts have transformed the landscape of Hansen’s disease in the country.
From 57.2 to 0.57: A Long-Term Victory
In 1981, India faced a high burden of leprosy, with a prevalence rate of 57.2 per 10,000 people and 39.19 lakh patients on treatment. By 2025, the prevalence rate had fallen to 0.57 per 10,000, and about 0.82 lakh patients remained on treatment. This trajectory reflects the sustained impact of early treatment strategies and robust public health programs.
Milestones in Control Efforts
A crucial turning point occurred in March 2006, when the annual report confirmed a prevalence rate of less than 1 per 10,000 (0.84). Since then, new case detection has declined by 37%, signaling a shift from widespread transmission to more targeted control and prevention efforts.
Leprosy: What It Is and How It Is Managed
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infection caused by Mycobacterium leprae. Symptoms can include discolored patches on the skin, diminished sensation, muscle weakness, and potential deformities in the hands, feet, and face. Transmission typically occurs through droplets from the nose and mouth during prolonged close contact with untreated cases.
Treatment Beyond Symptoms
The cornerstone of India’s fight against leprosy has been Multidrug Therapy (MDT), introduced in 1983. MDT combines rifampicin, clofazimine, and dapsone to both bactericidally and bacteriostatically tackle the bacteria. This regimen—provided free of charge through national programs—has prevented disabilities and deformities through early diagnosis and treatment.
National Programs That Shaped the Outcome
The National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP) emerged as a central pillar, operating under the National Health Mission. The program’s success is credited to political will, continuous funding, timely adoption of global guidelines, and innovations in community engagement. The government notes that NLEP’s comprehensive approach has kept MDT availability steady and accessible to those in need.
Current Status and Elimination Goals
As part of the broader effort, India achieved national elimination status in March 2005, meaning the prevalence rate fell below 1 per 10,000 and remained there. By March 2025, 31 states and 638 districts had already achieved a prevalence rate under 1 per 10,000. Efforts continue to curb transmission and sustain low prevalence across sub-national regions.
Integration with Broader Health Initiatives
Screening for leprosy has been integrated into major national health programs, including Ayushman Bharat, Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), and Rashtriya Kishore Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK). This integration ensures early detection among both adults and children, reinforcing the goal of zero transmission by 2030 as outlined in the WHO Roadmap for Neglected Tropical Diseases 2021-2030.
Looking Ahead: What It Takes to Reach Zero Transmission
With India approaching its target of zero transmission, sustained political commitment, adequate funding, and active public involvement are essential. The government emphasizes that ongoing vaccination-like coverage, post-exposure prophylaxis, and timely updates to treatment regimens will support the remaining steps toward elimination of new cases.
In a landscape where leprosy remains a historical stigma for many communities, the steady decrease in prevalence demonstrates what a coordinated public health response can achieve. As India continues to push toward zero transmission, the lessons from decades of NLEP—especially in surveillance, early treatment, and community engagement—offer a blueprint for other nations facing similar challenges.
