ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh has achieved a significant milestone in malaria control, earning Category 1 status as per the World Malaria Report 2024 by the World Health Organization (WHO). This reflects an Annual Parasite Incidence (API) of less than one case per 1,000 population, marking a notable advancement in the state’s public health efforts.
In addition to Arunachal Pradesh, regions like Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Madhya Pradesh, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli have also progressed to Category 1, showcasing India's overall success in combating malaria. These achievements signify the country’s growing momentum in reducing malaria prevalence and moving closer to eradication.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed his pride in this accomplishment on his official X handle, attributing the success to collective efforts aimed at reducing malaria cases and fatalities. “India is very fast moving toward a malaria-free future. Thanks to the concerted efforts of all stakeholders, malaria cases have declined to two million, and deaths have plummeted to just 83 by 2023, underscoring our collective resolve to improve public health for our citizens,” he stated.
Highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s inclusion among top-performing states, CM Khandu noted: “Arunachal Pradesh, along with Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Madhya Pradesh, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli, has moved to Category 1 in 2023, reporting an API of less than one case per 1,000 population.”
The Chief Minister credited India’s progress in malaria control to targeted interventions under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, emphasizing the enhancements made to public health infrastructure. “Our robust public health infrastructure will help India achieve malaria-free status by 2030,” he said.
Reiterating Arunachal Pradesh’s commitment to malaria eradication, Khandu added, “We are determined to make every possible effort to ensure zero indigenous cases by 2027.”
The WHO report underscores India’s success in malaria control, with cases reduced to two million and deaths decreasing to just 83 by 2023. This progress is attributed to extensive implementation of *vector control measures, increased access to diagnostic tools, and the distribution of *long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs).
Arunachal Pradesh’s achievement demonstrates its unwavering commitment to improving public health and serves as an inspiration for other regions in the ongoing battle against malaria.
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