India Reaffirms 2030 Hepatitis Elimination Goal as NVHCP Completes 8 Years

The Indian government, through its Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has emphatically reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by the year 2030. This renewed pledge comes as the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP) successfully completes eight years since its inception. The announcement was made during the observation of World Hepatitis Day 2026, which highlights India's ongoing, concerted efforts to achieve a 'Hepatitis-Mukt Bharat' (Hepatitis-Free India). The National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme was launched on July 28, 2018, by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Its primary goal is to prevent and control viral hepatitis in India, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.3, which targets ending viral hepatitis by 2030. This comprehensive initiative covers all five major types of hepatitis viruses – A, B, C, D, and E – encompassing prevention, detection, and treatment to effectively manage the disease burden across the nation. India bears a significant global burden of viral hepatitis, with millions affected by Hepatitis B and C, which can lead to severe complications like liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer). Hepatitis A and E are also prevalent, largely due to faecal-oral transmission routes linked to poor sanitation and contaminated water. Recognizing this, the NVHCP was designed with a multi-pronged approach to tackle the silent epidemic. Key achievements and components of the NVHCP include the provision of free screening, diagnostic services, and medicines for patients suffering from Hepatitis B and C. As of recent reports, over 21 crore (210 million) people have been screened for viral hepatitis, and more than 6 lakh (600,000) patients have received free treatment under the program. The program has also established 1,153 treatment centers across the country, expanding access to care. Prevention is a cornerstone of the NVHCP. This includes robust awareness generation campaigns to promote preventive measures, especially among high-risk groups. Immunization against Hepatitis B is a critical part, with the vaccine included in the Universal Immunisation Programme, ensuring a birth dose within 24 hours and subsequent doses. The program also emphasizes the safety of blood and blood products, injection safety, and the promotion of safe drinking water, hygiene, and sanitation practices to curb the spread of Hepatitis A and E. The NVHCP is also integrated with other national health initiatives. For instance, the Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health and Nutrition (RMNCAH+N) program ensures universal screening of pregnant women for Hepatitis B, with over 7.64 crore pregnant women screened, achieving more than 92% birth-dose coverage. However, officials are urging states to achieve 100% screening for pregnant women to further enhance prevention of mother-to-child transmission. Linkages with the National AIDS Control Programme facilitate screening of high-risk groups, and existing molecular testing facilities under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme are utilized for hepatitis diagnosis. The program leverages technology, including a web-based 'Viral Hepatitis Information and Management System' (NVHCP-MIS portal) for paperless patient tracking and monitoring, and a toll-free helpline (1800-11-6666) to provide information and support. By expanding services from district hospitals to local health centers and utilizing affordable generic medicines, the program aims to make care more accessible at the grassroots level. Experts and policymakers at various forums, including conferences organized on World Hepatitis Day, have consistently highlighted that India possesses the necessary knowledge, vaccines, diagnostics, and treatments to achieve the 2030 elimination goal. The ongoing challenge lies in ensuring these interventions reach every individual through universal screening, expanded adult immunization, stronger maternal healthcare, early diagnosis, and equitable access to treatment, along with addressing societal stigma. The collaborative 'whole-of-society' approach involving government, healthcare institutions, the private sector, civil society, and development partners is deemed crucial for the program's continued success. While significant progress has been made, continuous investments in preventive healthcare, public awareness, and strengthening surveillance systems are essential to overcome existing challenges and ultimately achieve a hepatitis-free India by 2030, ensuring better liver health for all citizens.

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