Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a systemic protozoan disease transmitted by phlebotomine sandflies, primarily affecting poor and neglected populations in East Africa and the Indian subcontinent. Early and accurate diagnosis and treatment are crucial for VL control. Improved diagnostic tests, such as the rk39 immunochromatographic test, and simple, accurate tests to identify treatment failures are needed. Miltefosine, paromomycin, and liposomal amphotericin B are gradually replacing pentavalent antimonials and conventional amphotericin B as preferred treatments in some regions. New diagnostic tools and treatment strategies must be widely available to patients. VL control strategies include reservoir and vector control, insecticide-impregnated materials, and active case detection and treatment. The elimination of VL in the Indian subcontinent is a priority, with a focus on early diagnosis and treatment, integrated vector management, disease surveillance, social mobilization, and research. Diagnostic challenges include the development of sensitive and specific tests, particularly for HIV-co-infected patients. Treatment challenges include the need for improved drugs, combination therapies, and monitoring drug resistance. Vaccine development is also a critical area, with ongoing clinical trials for a second-generation vaccine. Effective control requires sustained commitment from all partners.Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a systemic protozoan disease transmitted by phlebotomine sandflies, primarily affecting poor and neglected populations in East Africa and the Indian subcontinent. Early and accurate diagnosis and treatment are crucial for VL control. Improved diagnostic tests, such as the rk39 immunochromatographic test, and simple, accurate tests to identify treatment failures are needed. Miltefosine, paromomycin, and liposomal amphotericin B are gradually replacing pentavalent antimonials and conventional amphotericin B as preferred treatments in some regions. New diagnostic tools and treatment strategies must be widely available to patients. VL control strategies include reservoir and vector control, insecticide-impregnated materials, and active case detection and treatment. The elimination of VL in the Indian subcontinent is a priority, with a focus on early diagnosis and treatment, integrated vector management, disease surveillance, social mobilization, and research. Diagnostic challenges include the development of sensitive and specific tests, particularly for HIV-co-infected patients. Treatment challenges include the need for improved drugs, combination therapies, and monitoring drug resistance. Vaccine development is also a critical area, with ongoing clinical trials for a second-generation vaccine. Effective control requires sustained commitment from all partners.