Arunachal marks World Malaria Day with big win: 16 districts declared malaria-free

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 25, 2025

The National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC), under the Department of Health Services, Arunachal Pradesh, marked World Malaria Day 2025 with a strong message: “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite.” The event, held at the DHS conference hall in Naharlagun, highlighted major strides in the state’s fight against malaria.

In a notable announcement, Dr. K.T. Mulung, Deputy Director of Health Services and State Programme Officer for NCVBDC, revealed that 16 out of Arunachal Pradesh’s 27 districts have been officially declared malaria-free. “This achievement reflects the relentless efforts of our health workers, field teams, and community volunteers,” Dr. Mulung said. He reaffirmed the department’s target of making Arunachal completely malaria-free by 2027.

The malaria-free districts include: Tawang, West Kameng, East Kameng, Pakke Kessang, Lower Subansiri, Kra Daadi, Kurung Kumey, Kamle, Upper Subansiri, Dibang Valley, Anjaw, East Siang, Siang, Namsai, Longding, Lower Siang, and Lower Dibang Valley.

The program began with a welcome address by Mum Lego, State IEC Consultant for NCVBDC, who stressed the importance of public awareness and local involvement in malaria prevention. A pledge ceremony led by Dr. Rikken Rina, Director of Health Services, saw participants commit to sustained efforts in eradicating malaria from the region.

A short video presentation illustrated the real-life impacts of anti-malaria initiatives across the state. The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks from Dr. Gopi Basar, Consultant PSCM, who acknowledged the contributions of all stakeholders.

With momentum building and more districts making progress, Arunachal’s health department is aiming high — toward a malaria-free future by 2027.