According to a recent World Health Organization (WHO) report, India has achieved a milestone in its fight against malaria. The country recorded a 93% drop in malaria cases and a 68% reduction in malaria-related deaths. This progress reflects a sustained and multifaceted approach to combating the disease, driven by national policies, international collaborations, and grassroots-level initiatives.
India’s success story is tied to the WHO’s High Burden to High Impact (HBHI) initiative, launched in 2018. The initiative aimed to tackle malaria in the most affected countries. India was a key participant until 2024, by which time it had made such significant strides that it exited the HBHI group altogether. Between 2017 and 2023, malaria cases in India plummeted from 64 lakhs (6.4 million) to 20 lakhs (two million), marking a 69% decline. Concurrently, malaria-related deaths fell by 68%.
Steady Progress And Recent Gains
The last year alone saw a 9.6% drop in malaria cases in India, signalling sustained progress. The Southeast Asia Region—home to eight malaria-endemic countries—reported 50 lakh (four million) malaria cases in 2023, accounting for 1.5% of the global burden. India’s share, although significant at half of the region’s cases, represented a sharp decline in national malaria incidence, from 20 cases per 1,000 at-risk individuals in 2000 to just 1.5 cases in 2023.
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We asked our expert Dr Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant, Sharda Hospital - Noida, as to what went right and he attributes this achievement to a combination of prevention, treatment, and community engagement strategies. “India’s holistic approach has been instrumental in turning the tide against malaria. From preventive tools to leveraging community health workers, every effort has contributed to this dramatic improvement,” he said. Here is everything he shared with us.
What Went Right: Key Factors Driving Success
Here is everything he shared with us that went right and helped India in the process:
1. Empowered Community Health Workers
Community health workers, particularly women, have played a pivotal role in delivering healthcare to remote and underserved areas. Their culturally sensitive approach has broken down social barriers, enabling female patients to seek care without hesitation. By integrating education and healthcare delivery, these workers have amplified the reach and impact of malaria control programs.
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2. Preventive Measures
In 2023 alone, over 11 lakh (1.1 million) Insecticide-Treated Mosquito Nets (ITNs) were distributed across malaria-prone areas in India. Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) also remained a cornerstone of preventive efforts, significantly reducing mosquito populations and the risk of transmission.
3. Advancements in Vaccination
A landmark development in malaria prevention came in 2023 with the WHO’s recommendation of the R21/Matrix-M vaccine. This second malaria vaccine enhances protection, particularly for children in high-risk regions.
Road Ahead For Sustaining The Momentum
While India’s achievements are commendable, maintaining and building on this success requires ongoing vigilance. Scaling up vaccination coverage, ensuring equitable access to healthcare, and addressing emerging challenges such as insecticide resistance is critical for the next phase of malaria elimination.
The WHO report highlights India’s role in the global fight against malaria, setting an example for other countries battling this deadly disease. With continued commitment and innovation, India is well on its way to achieving malaria elimination and inspiring similar efforts worldwide.