A strong attack on malaria under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai
Government’s campaign in mission mode, decisive steps towards ‘zero malaria’
The fight against malaria is no longer just about treatment, it is a fight of strategy and public participation – Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal
Raipur, 14 July 2025: As a result of the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai and the commitment of the state government towards public health, Chhattisgarh has re-started a decisive campaign towards the permanent elimination of malaria. Under the guidance of Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, the department has set a new standard in the field of public health by taking an exemplary strategic initiative against a deadly disease like malaria. The 12th phase of the ‘Malaria Mukt Chhattisgarh Abhiyan’ has not only expanded its scope, but has also made it clear with its impact that when the government works with determination and policy-based action, the results are visible on the ground. Under this phase, which started from June 25, intensive investigation, treatment and public awareness campaign was conducted in 10 districts of the state. So far, 19,402 houses have been visited and 98,594 people have been tested for blood. Of these, 1,265 people were found malaria positive. Most importantly, the first dose of medicine was provided to all infected persons on the spot, and that too with utmost care—the patients were first fed local food items, so that the effect of the medicine remains safe and effective. Each patient has been given a treatment card, so that complete monitoring can be ensured through follow-up.
The positive impact of this campaign is being seen most in Bastar division. There has been a 71 percent decline in malaria cases here compared to 2015. This is not an ordinary achievement, but the result of a well-organized, sustainable and scientific strategy. The state’s Annual Parasite Index (API) has also come down from 27.40 to 7.11, which shows that the state has effectively controlled malaria. Expressing satisfaction over the progress of the campaign, Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal said that the fight against malaria is no longer just about treatment, it has become a fight of strategy and public participation. He believes that the target set by the government—’zero malaria’ by 2027 and ‘complete malaria free Chhattisgarh’ by 2030—is not just being documented, but is being realized in reality.
Health Department Commissioner cum Director Dr. Priyanka Shukla said that due to the impact of the Malaria Free Chhattisgarh campaign in the state, malaria cases have declined in Bastar division. “Reaching every infected person, treating him on time and ensuring that there is no scope for infection in the future—this is our priority.” She said that our focus is on asymptomatic malaria cases, so that the disease can be eradicated from its roots.
The participation of Mitanins, Anganwadi workers, Gram Panchayats and voluntary organizations has also been remarkable in the success of this campaign. It is not just a health program, but has now become a mass movement. Along with testing and treatment, people are also being made aware of practical measures like regular use of mosquito nets, prevention of waterlogging and cleanliness. This concrete and sensitive effort of the Chhattisgarh government is the result of the vision and political will of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, which is not only a strong and sustainable step towards making the state malaria free, but is also becoming an inspiring model in the field of public health at the national level. In the coming years, this strategy will be set as an example for other states to follow.
