Tamil Nadu govt moves to provide Emicizumab to Haemophilia A patients, says Health Minister

Chennai, August 25, 2026 — The Tamil Nadu government is taking steps to distribute Emicizumab, a key medicine for Haemophilia A patients with Factor VIII inhibitor antibodies, Health Minister K.G. Arunraj told the State Assembly on Tuesday. Responding to a calling-attention motion moved by M.S. Ravi, the Minister said the drug was not yet part of the National Health Mission (NHM) essential medicines list, but the government was actively working to make it available to patients.

“It has not been included in the NHM essential medicines list. However, the government is taking steps to distribute the medicine to patients,” the Minister said in his reply. He did not specify a timeline or the mechanism for distribution, but assured the House that the matter was receiving attention.

Haemophilia is a rare, inherited bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot properly due to a deficiency of clotting factors. Haemophilia A, the most common form, results from a lack of clotting factor VIII. A significant challenge in treatment arises when patients develop inhibitors — antibodies that neutralise the clotting factor replacement therapy. For such patients, Emicizumab, a bispecific monoclonal antibody, has emerged as a crucial alternative. It acts as a bridge between activated factor IX and factor X, restoring effective haemostasis without requiring frequent intravenous infusions.

The drug, sold under brand names such as Hemlibra, is administered subcutaneously, making it more convenient than traditional factor replacement. However, its cost remains a barrier. A single vial can cost thousands of rupees, making sustained treatment unaffordable for many families. Patient advocacy groups have repeatedly urged State and Central governments to include Emicizumab in public health programmes and essential medicines lists to ensure equitable access.

The NHM essential medicines list is a benchmark for drugs that should be available at public health facilities. Inclusion in the list typically enables procurement through central funding and helps standardise treatment protocols. While Emicizumab is not yet on that list, the Tamil Nadu government’s statement signals a willingness to act at the State level.

The calling-attention motion by M.S. Ravi sought free distribution of the medicine to all affected patients in the State. The Minister’s response, while not committing to a fully free programme, indicated that the government was exploring ways to reach patients. Health officials present during the session later noted that the State would need to assess patient numbers, budget requirements, and procurement logistics before finalising a plan.

Experts say that timely access to Emicizumab can significantly improve quality of life for Haemophilia A patients with inhibitors. It reduces the frequency of bleeding episodes and the need for hospitalisations. For children, early treatment can prevent joint damage and disability. For adults, it can enable normal employment and daily activities.

Tamil Nadu has a relatively robust public healthcare system, and its State health department has previously launched initiatives for rare diseases. The government’s current move, though at an early stage, has raised hopes among patient communities. They await a concrete rollout plan, including details on patient registration, distribution points, and whether the medicine will be provided at no cost or subsidised rates.

In the Assembly, the Minister did not provide specific figures on the number of patients who might benefit. However, haemophilia registries across India estimate that roughly 60,000 to 80,000 people live with the disorder, with a proportion developing inhibitors. Tamil Nadu is among the States with active patient support networks, and local chapters have been documenting cases to aid in policy planning.

The development comes amid growing national attention on rare disease management. India ndash a National Policy for Rare Diseases and has designated centres of excellence, but implementation remains uneven across States. State-level interventions like Tamil Nadu’s could set a precedent, though health experts caution that sustainable funding and supply chains are essential to avoid gaps in treatment.

The Minister’s assurance is a positive first step, but the proof lies in execution. Patients and their families will be closely watching for the next announcement — the actual distribution mechanism, cost coverage, and the timeline. For now, the government has acknowledged the need, and that acknowledgment is a vital move towards making life-saving therapy accessible for a vulnerable group.