India Achieves Remarkable 69% Reduction in Malaria Cases and Deaths: WHO Report
India has made remarkable progress in combating malaria, achieving a 69% reduction in both cases and deaths between 2017 and 2023, according to the World Malaria Report released by the World Health Organization (WHO). This achievement enabled India to officially exit the High Burden High Incidence (HBHI) group in 2024, a significant milestone in its fight against the disease.
The report reveals that India’s estimated malaria cases declined from 64 lakh in 2017 to 20 lakh in 2023, while deaths dropped from 11,100 to 3,500 during the same period. This represents a 68% decrease in malaria-related fatalities. Over a longer timeline, India reduced its malaria cases by 82.4%, from 2.28 crore in 2000 to 20 lakh in 2023, with an 87% reduction in incidence per 1,000 at-risk individuals.
Despite this progress, India remains responsible for half of the estimated malaria cases in the Southeast Asia region, which collectively contributes to 1.5% of the global malaria burden.
The WHO attributed much of India’s success to the critical role of community health workers, especially women, in reaching remote and underserved populations. These workers have been instrumental in breaking down barriers for female patients who often face social and cultural challenges in accessing healthcare.
While global malaria deaths remain alarmingly high, with 5.97 lakh fatalities reported in 2023, India’s progress stands out. However, the report also highlighted challenges, such as a decline in Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) coverage. In 2023, 30 lakh fewer individuals were protected compared to 2022. Nevertheless, targeted IRS efforts covered 88.4% of those at risk, demonstrating the effectiveness of focused interventions.
Globally, the WHO cautioned that the malaria eradication target for 2030 is currently off track, urging increased investment and targeted action, particularly in high-burden African countries where young children and pregnant women remain the most vulnerable.
India’s achievement underscores the potential of sustained public health initiatives, innovative interventions, and community involvement in combating endemic diseases, setting a benchmark for other nations grappling with malaria.
