Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh has made remarkable strides in malaria control, achieving Category 1 status as per the latest World Malaria Report 2024 by the World Health Organization (WHO). This classification signifies an Annual Parasite Incidence (API) of less than one case per 1,000 population.
Along with Arunachal Pradesh, other regions advancing to Category 1 include Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Madhya Pradesh, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli, marking significant progress in India’s fight against malaria.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed his pride and gratitude for this achievement on his official X handle, highlighting the country’s collective efforts to reduce 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 said.
He further celebrated Arunachal Pradesh’s inclusion among the top-performing states in combating malaria, stating:
“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.”
CM Khandu attributed India’s robust progress in malaria control to targeted interventions under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership, which have significantly strengthened the country’s public health infrastructure.
“Our robust public health infrastructure will help India achieve malaria-free status by 2030,” Khandu said.
He also emphasized Arunachal Pradesh’s commitment to eradicating malaria:
“We are determined to make every possible effort to ensure zero indigenous cases by 2027.”
The WHO report reflects India’s overall success in malaria control, with cases declining to two million and deaths reducing to just 83 by 2023. This progress is attributed to widespread implementation of *vector control measures, increased access to diagnostic tools, and the distribution of *long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs).
Arunachal Pradesh’s achievement is a testament to the state’s dedication to improving public health and serves as a beacon for other regions in the fight against malaria.