India reports 86 pc fall in malaria cases since 2015

The number of malaria cases in India has fallen by a staggering 86 per cent since 2015 and there has been a 79-per cent reduction in the number of deaths caused by the disease between 2015 and 2021, according to a report by non-profit organisation Malaria No More.

India’s budgetary allocation to fight malaria more than doubled between 2017 and 2019 and it was made a notifiable disease in 31 states and Union territories, report titled “India’s march towards malaria elimination” said. This was complemented by distribution of over9 crore long-lasting insecticidal nets, 4.8 crore of which were distributed between 2019 and 2021.

The government aims at eliminating malaria from the country by 2030. Some critical challenges that remain to be addressed include getting a greater participation from the private sector, individuals and communities to put up a joint fight against the disease, the report stated. The private sector’s participation in effective reporting of malaria, digging out asymptomatic or hidden malaria cases, improved real-time case reporting and technological innovation are areas that require more work.

Malaria in India is perceived as a poor man’s disease, thus receiving low priority in the public health agenda. A pertinent need is increased action and attention from the government, Pratik Kumar, country director of Malaria No More, said while addressing a media sensitisation workshop on malaria.

“However, this goal cannot be achieved solely by the government and requires active participation and support. All hands must join in effort to eliminate malaria so that India can achieve the goal of eliminating the disease by 2030,” Kumar said.

Malaria is perceived as poor man’s disease, thus receiving low priority in agenda