Why this matters now
NCDs now cause the majority of deaths in India — their rise, risk factors and programmes are increasingly tested as part of the “double burden” of disease.
What NCDs are
NCDs are non-infectious, long-duration diseases. The four major types: cardiovascular diseases (heart attacks, strokes), cancers, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes — plus mental health conditions. They account for roughly two-thirds of all deaths in India.
Risk factors and impact
Major modifiable risk factors: tobacco, alcohol, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity and air pollution. The burden brings huge economic costs (productivity loss, catastrophic health spending) and is rising due to ageing, urbanisation and changing lifestyles — increasingly affecting younger people and the poor.
Government response and prevention
India runs the National Programme for Prevention and Control of NCDs (NP-NCD), screening at Health & Wellness Centres, tobacco/alcohol control (COTPA), the Eat Right/Fit India movements, and Ayushman Bharat coverage. Prevention emphasises healthy lifestyles, early screening and primary care.
UPSC angle
Know the four major NCDs (cardiovascular, cancer, respiratory, diabetes), the ~2/3 death share, modifiable risk factors (tobacco/alcohol/diet/inactivity), and the NP-NCD programme + screening.
Frequently asked questions
What are non-communicable diseases?
Non-infectious, long-duration diseases — chiefly cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes.
How big is the NCD burden in India?
NCDs account for roughly two-thirds of all deaths in India.
What are the main risk factors for NCDs?
Tobacco use, harmful alcohol use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity and air pollution.
How does the government tackle NCDs?
Through the NP-NCD programme, screening at Health & Wellness Centres, tobacco control and lifestyle movements.