India’s Progress and Challenges in Achieving the Goal of Eliminating Malaria by 2030
India has set an ambitious target to eliminate malaria by 2030 under the National Framework for Malaria Elimination (2016-2030). Significant progress has been made, with malaria cases reducing by 80% between 2015 and 2023. By 2024, India exited the WHO 'High Burden to High Impact' group. However, challenges remain, including persistent Plasmodium vivax transmission, drug resistance (especially to artemisinin derivatives), and cross-border importation of cases. The strategy focuses on transforming malaria surveillance into a core intervention, ensuring universal access to diagnosis and treatment, and intensifying vector control in high-burden districts.
Key Points
- The National Framework for Malaria Elimination aims for zero indigenous cases by 2030.
- India achieved an 80% reduction in malaria cases from 2015 to 2023.
- Plasmodium vivax accounts for nearly two-thirds of regional cases and is harder to eliminate due to its dormant liver stage.
- The World Malaria Report 2025 highlights the growing threat of antimalarial drug resistance in Africa and Southeast Asia.
Exam Facts
- Target year for malaria elimination: 2030.
- National Strategic Plan (NSP) for Malaria Elimination (2023-2027).
- 47 countries or territories have been certified malaria-free by WHO as of mid-2025.
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