Professor Dr. Soumya Swaminathan has been appointed as Principal Advisor to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme, serving in a pro bono capacity. According to a statement from the Ministry, Prof. Swaminathan will offer technical guidance to shape the program's strategy, advise on policy directions and necessary adjustments for optimal outcomes, and contribute to research strategy development. She will facilitate the formation of expert groups comprising global top talent and assist in evaluating the programme's impact alongside Union Health Ministry officials, state authorities, and development partners. Prof. Swaminathan brings extensive experience to this role, having previously served as Chief Scientist at the World Health Organization and Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).