By NE NOW NEWS

Guwahati: Arunachal Pradesh has declared 19 of its 27 districts malaria-free, marking a major step forward in its efforts to eliminate the disease by 2027.

The announcement was made during the observance of World Malaria Day by the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) under the Department of Health Services at Naharlagun.

In his welcome address, K.T. Mulung, Deputy Director of Health Services-cum-State Programme Officer (NCVBDC), described the achievement as a significant milestone in the stateโ€™s malaria elimination drive. He attributed the progress to sustained awareness campaigns, robust surveillance systems, timely diagnosis and treatment, and strong inter-sectoral coordination.

Highlighting the steady decline in malaria incidence, Mulung said Arunachal Pradesh recorded only 32 cases in 2025, underscoring the effectiveness of ongoing public health interventions.

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

As part of the programme, participants took a malaria pledge and engaged in a slogan session, reaffirming their commitment to prevention, early detection and prompt treatment. An awareness film was also screened.

The event was attended by senior health officials, programme officers, consultants, field staff and other stakeholders. It concluded with a vote of thanks by P.J. Sharma, Consultant (Monitoring and Evaluation), NCVBDC.