Tripura aims to eliminate malaria by 2027: Gitte

In a significant stride toward public health advancement, Tripura has set an ambitious target to become malaria-free by the year 2027.

The announcement was made by Health and Family Welfare Secretary Kiran Gitte during a three-day state-level review meeting that concluded recently.

Held from June 2 to 4 at the National Health Mission (NHM) headquarters, the meeting focused on eliminating malaria and controlling the spread of dengue across the state. Inaugurating the session, Gitte emphasized the government’s commitment to achieving the malaria elimination goal within the next two years.

“So far, around 9.5 lakh mosquito nets have been distributed across the state,” Gitte stated, highlighting the state's proactive distribution efforts.

In addition to widespread distribution of mosquito nets, the state has rolled out several vector control strategies. These include larvicide spraying, release of larvivorous fish, and door-to-door malaria testing and treatment—particularly in vulnerable and remote regions.

The review meeting also stressed the importance of drug prophylaxis, health camps, and targeted surveillance among Jumia families living in interior forested areas.

Officials noted that the Health and Family Welfare Department is implementing a comprehensive action plan that includes Intensified public awareness campaigns, Elimination of mosquito breeding grounds, Early diagnosis and timely treatment of vector-borne diseases.

The meeting witnessed the active participation of all district malaria officers, state consultants, malaria technical supervisors, account assistants, and data entry operators.

It was conducted under the close supervision of Dr. Tapas Kumar Bhattacharya, Senior Regional Director, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and Dr. Abhijit Das, State Program Officer, NVBDCP.

Key NHM officials, including Joint Mission Director Arup Dev and Member Secretary Dr. Nupur Debbarma, were also present, reaffirming the department’s holistic approach toward disease eradication.