India is achieving historic milestones in its fight against malaria, paving the way for a malaria-free nation by 2030. A press release on this progress was issue on December 25, 2024.
Once a public health crisis with an estimated 7.5 crore malaria cases and 8 lakh deaths annually at the time of independence, the country has achieved over a 97% reduction in cases and fatalities, as reflected in the World Malaria Report 2024 by the World Health Organization (WHO).
In 2024, India exited the WHO’s “High Burden to High Impact” (HBHI) group, marking a transformative step in its malaria elimination efforts. Malaria cases have declined from 11.7 lakh in 2015 to 2.3 lakh in 2023, with malaria-related deaths dropping from 384 to just 83 in the same period.
Strategic Frameworks Driving Progress
India’s success is rooted in comprehensive initiatives like the National Framework for Malaria Elimination (NFME) and the National Strategic Plan for Malaria Elimination (2023-2027). These frameworks emphasize early detection, effective treatment, robust surveillance, and real-time data monitoring via the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP).
Integrated Vector Management (IVM), including measures such as Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) and distribution of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs), has significantly reduced mosquito populations and transmission. Efforts to control the urban-centric Anopheles stephensi mosquito have further bolstered these measures.
Notable Achievements (2015-2023)
Shift in Burden Categories: By 2023, 24 states and Union Territories achieved Category 1 status (API < 1 case/1000 population), with Ladakh, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry reporting zero indigenous malaria cases, qualifying for subnational elimination verification.
Enhanced Surveillance: Annual Blood Examination Rates (ABER) improved from 9.58 in 2015 to 11.62 in 2023, ensuring timely detection and intervention.
Training and Research: Over 850 health professionals were trained in 2024 to enhance malaria control. Studies on insecticide resistance and drug efficacy refined intervention strategies.
Community and Collaborative Efforts
Malaria elimination has been integrated into India’s flagship Ayushman Bharat program, extending healthcare access to underserved populations. Community Health Officers and Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have played a crucial role in delivering malaria-related services at the grassroots.
Collaborations under initiatives like the Intensified Malaria Elimination Project-3 (IMEP-3) have also been pivotal, targeting high-burden districts with resources for LLIN distribution, entomological studies, and surveillance.
India remains steadfast in achieving zero indigenous malaria cases by 2027 and malaria-free certification by 2030. With its strategic frameworks, robust interventions, and community engagement, India is not only advancing its public health goals but also setting a global benchmark in malaria elimination.
