Asthma is the only treatable condition in India that is increasing in frequency and severity. The condition can not yet be cured but in most patients it can be controlled with a combination of relieving and preventive therapies. Under standing of mechanism behind the disease and the rationale behind treatment has improved significantly, but there is evidence that the benefits of such knowledge are not reaching all arthmatics. How much this is due to deficiencies is health care services and how much is due to patient factors needs careful considerations.