Indian NGO REACH Awarded 2026 Kochon Prize for TB Efforts
REACH becomes India's first civil society organization to receive this global tuberculosis recognition.
1Global Recognition for REACH
The Resource group for Education and Advocacy for Community Health, known as REACH, received the 2026 Kochon Prize. This marks the first time an Indian civil society non-profit has earned this global honor. The award recognizes their dedicated efforts to strengthen the national response against tuberculosis through community-focused health initiatives.
2Partnership and Award Ceremony
The Kochon Foundation, an independent Korean non-profit, presents this prize in partnership with the Stop TB Partnership. The 2026 ceremony took place during the Stop TB Partnership Board Meeting held in Indonesia on November 5, 2026. This award highlights organizations making significant contributions to the ongoing global fight against tuberculosis.
3Shared Global Honors
REACH shares the 2026 Kochon Prize with two other international entities: the Centre for Health Solutions in Kenya and the Marshall Islands TB Control Program. This collaborative recognition underscores the diverse, multi-regional approaches required to address tuberculosis. Previous Indian winners include the Indian Council of Medical Research and Molbio Diagnostics.
4Integrated Care Philosophy
Nalini Krishnan, chairperson of REACH, emphasizes treating the person rather than just the disease. Their model addresses social, mental health, and situational challenges alongside clinical needs. By focusing on the whole person, the organization ensures that vulnerable communities receive equitable access to care, leaving no one behind in treatment.
5Scientific and Technical Rigor
Soumya Swaminathan, former chief scientist at the WHO, nominated REACH for this prestigious award. She praised the organization for combining a robust scientific approach with a deep understanding of India's public health landscape. REACH is noted for being a women-led organization that balances technical expertise with genuine community support.
6Community-Driven Health Impact
Director Ramya Ananthakrishnan attributes this success to the dedication of TB Nanbans, TB Champions, and community health workers. These individuals work directly with families affected by tuberculosis and non-communicable diseases. Their collective commitment has been essential in building the trust necessary to facilitate effective health interventions across various local communities.
7Historical Context of Winners
The Kochon Prize has a history of recognizing Indian contributions to TB control since 2006, when L.S. Chauhan received the honor. Subsequent winners from India have included major research institutions and diagnostic firms. REACH represents a shift toward recognizing civil society organizations that operate at the grassroots level of healthcare.
8Future Outlook for REACH
Receiving the 2026 Kochon Prize provides significant momentum for REACH to expand its integrated care model. The organization remains focused on addressing the complex barriers to health access in India. By continuing to prioritize community trust and scientific rigor, they aim to further improve outcomes for those affected by tuberculosis.
Original article: The Hindu – National — Indian NGO REACH Awarded 2026 Kochon Prize for TB Efforts