On World Malaria Day, while much of India reflects on the progress made against this age-old disease, the state of Odisha tells a more complex story—one of both remarkable success and persistent struggle. Known once as one of the most malaria-affected regions in the country, Odisha has spent years transforming its healthcare approach, reaching remote tribal areas, and reducing cases dramatically. But despite years of effort and measurable progress, the fight against malaria in Odisha is far from over.
The state’s malaria control initiative, Durgama Anchlare Malaria Nirakarana (DAMaN), launched in 2017, has become a model for other regions. It brought healthcare workers into deep forested areas, provided long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs), and carried out thousands of malaria camps. For a time, it worked incredibly well. Malaria cases dropped by over 90%, and optimism ran high. Odisha was no longer the epicenter of India’s malaria crisis—it had become a symbol of how local governments and communities could drive real change.
But recent years have shown how quickly gains can slip away. In 2023, Odisha saw a troubling resurgence of malaria, with case numbers nearly doubling from the previous year. The reasons are not hard to find. Many of the mosquito nets that were distributed five years ago are no longer effective. Delays in replacing them left millions exposed. Behavioral factors also played a role—people stopped using nets during hotter months or when cases dropped, and the disease quietly crept back in.
Health workers on the ground are still fighting hard. The DAMaN program has been extended, and the government has pledged new efforts to distribute fresh nets and increase community awareness. Partnerships with organizations like Malaria No More India aim to bring in better technology and data systems to detect and respond to outbreaks faster. Yet challenges persist: difficult terrain, health misinformation, poverty, and limited infrastructure continue to slow down progress.
Odisha’s story on World Malaria Day is a powerful reminder that the path to disease elimination is rarely a straight line. Progress can be undone if vigilance is lost. It also highlights the importance of consistent funding, timely logistics, and the active involvement of local communities in maintaining public health victories.
While the dream of a malaria-free Odisha is still alive, it now comes with a clearer understanding of the road ahead—a journey that demands not only strategy and science, but resilience, trust, and unwavering commitment.
