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 Vector-borne diseases present a complex public health challenge in India, shaped by diverse ecological, climatic, and socio-economic conditions. Malaria, dengue, chikungunya, kala-azar (visceral leishmaniasis), lymphatic filariasis, and Japanese encephalitis continue to affect vulnerable populations, especially in rural, tribal, and peri-urban areas. Despite these challenges, the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and in coordination with States and Union Territories, has made strong progress in prevention, control, and elimination efforts. Three diseases, including malaria, lymphatic filariasis, and kala-azar are now on track for elimination between 2027 and 2030.
Over the past decade, malaria cases and deaths have declined by more than 80%, and India has successfully exited the WHO High Burden to High Impact (HBHI) group. Kala-azar has remained below the elimination threshold in all endemic blocks since 2023, and the country is progressing toward formal elimination validation. In lymphatic filariasis, through the expansion of mass drug administration (MDA), 41% of previously endemic districts have stopped transmission, while coverage in remaining districts is nearly 96%. Focused efforts of MMDP are also underway to manage lymphedema and hydrocele and improve patients’ quality of life. Subsequently, sustained dengue, chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis control activities have reduced cases, improved case management, and lowered mortality.
These achievements reflect the strength of India's public health systems, the dedication of States and Union Territories in implementing context-specific interventions. Strengthened surveillance systems, including real-time reporting through IHIP, improved access to diagnostics and treatment, and sustained capacity building have formed the backbone of this progress. The establishment of the National Reference Laboratory (NRL) at NCVBDC in 2022 has further anchored these efforts, providing quality assurance in microscopy for malaria and filaria, training and certifying over 400 laboratory professionals through a cascade system spanning national to PHC level, and supporting regional and state laboratories to uphold diagnostic standards critical to elimination.
As India advances toward eliminating malaria, lymphatic filariasis, and kala-azar, while sustaining control of dengue, chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis, the programme is increasingly anchored in an integrated and evidence-based approach. Integrated Vector Management (IVM) is central to this strategy, enabling coordinated action across sectors such as health, sanitation, and urban and rural development, leading to more efficient, sustainable control of multiple vector-borne diseases.
Guided by the Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji's vision of Jan Bhagidari, community participation remains central to preventing vector breeding, promoting early diagnosis, and sustaining behaviour change, with ASHAs, ANMs, and frontline workers serving as the vital link between health systems and communities. The focus under the NHM flagship programme and Ayushman Aarogya Mandirs and have further strengthened this last mile connect, expanding access to preventive and curative services at the grassroots level. Addressing emerging challenges such as climate variability, rapid urbanisation, migration, and shifting vector ecology will require intersectoral convergence, entomological assessments, and technology-driven surveillance. The elimination of vector-borne diseases is ultimately inseparable from the vision of Viksit Bharat: a healthy, productive population is fundamental to economic growth, productivity, and social equity. With continued focus, efforts, innovation, and shared responsibility, India is well-positioned to accelerate progress towards a future free from vector-borne diseases and ensure a healthier, resilient nation for all.
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