Prof Soumya Swaminathan Appointed Principal Advisor for National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme

New Delhi: In a significant move towards combating tuberculosis, Prof. (Dr.) Soumya Swaminathan has been appointed as the Principal Advisor to the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare for the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) on a pro bono basis.

As Principal Advisor, Dr. Swaminathan will provide expert technical advice on the overall strategy to achieve the goals of the NTEP. She will play a crucial role in suggesting policy directions and necessary course corrections to ensure optimal outcomes. Her responsibilities will include advising on research strategy, assisting in the formation of expert groups with top global talent, and supporting the Union Health Ministry, state officials, and development partners in assessing the impact of the programme.

Dr. Swaminathan brings a wealth of experience to this role. She previously served as the Chief Scientist at the World Health Organization (WHO) and as the Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

The National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme aims to eradicate tuberculosis from India by 2025, a goal aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations.