India has achieved a significant milestone in its fight against malaria, as the nation exits the WHO’s High Burden to High Impact (HBHI) group in 2024. This marks a turning point in the nation’s decades-long battle against the disease, with malaria cases dropping by over 97% since independence and related deaths by 99.99%. In 2023, annual cases fell to 2.27 lakh, and deaths declined to just 83, a dramatic reduction from the 7.5 crore cases and 8 lakh deaths in 1947.
From High Burden to Zero Cases in Key Regions:
India’s efforts have transformed its malaria landscape. In 2023, zero indigenous cases were reported in Ladakh, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry, with 122 districts across various states achieving the same milestone. States like Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand have significantly reduced their malaria burden, moving to lower-risk categories. Today, 24 states and Union Territories report an annual parasite index (API) of less than one case per 1,000 population, a testament to the success of targeted interventions.
The National Framework for Malaria Elimination (NFME) and the National Strategic Plan for Malaria Elimination (2023–2027) have been pivotal in this transformation. A “testing, treating, tracking” approach, combined with real-time surveillance via the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP), has enabled early detection and timely interventions. Key measures such as Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS), Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs), and targeted control of Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes have significantly disrupted transmission cycles.
Strengthened Surveillance and Community Engagement:
The Annual Blood Examination Rate (ABER) rose from 9.58 in 2015 to 11.62 in 2023, ensuring better case detection and management. Community Health Officers and Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have extended malaria services to even the most vulnerable populations under the Ayushman Bharat Health Scheme.
“By combining strategic frameworks, robust interventions, and community engagement, India is setting a global benchmark in malaria elimination and reaffirming its commitment to public health excellence.”
Path Ahead: 2030 Vision:
With programs like the Intensified Malaria Elimination Project-3 (IMEP-3), targeting vulnerable districts, and continued investment in research and capacity building, India aims to achieve zero indigenous malaria cases by 2027 and full elimination by 2030. This achievement reinforces India’s leadership in public health on the global stage.
