To combat malaria in remote tribal-dominated areas, the State Government has planned to introduce an intensive malaria control drive called “DAMaN” (Durgama Anchalare Malaria Nirakaran) soon.
Odisha contributed 38 per cent of malaria cases and 28 per cent of related deaths to the country”s total malaria burden in 2015 - 16. Though curative and preventive measures have been taken, yet tribals in remote and inaccessible areas have been deprived of getting all such facilities. The State has 62 types of tribes, including 13 primitive tribes constituting 22.3 per cent of the State”s population. These people are under the high risk of malaria infection. In view of this, the DAMaN would be implemented in malaria endemic districts, said an official release.
The drive would supplement the routine malaria control activities and bridge the gaps in case finding and treatment among the high risk population of inaccessible villages and hamlets.
This programme includes mass screening for malaria with treatment of positive cases along with intensified surveillance, vector control measures and regular health education activities throughout the year.
The programme will be implemented in 8,000 villages/hamlets under 79 blocks in eight districts such as Koraput, Malakangiri, Nabarangapur, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Gajapati, Nuapada and Kandhamal.
These districts contributed around 60 per cent cases and 56 per cent death to the State malaria burden in 2015-16. The DAMaN will continue for 5 years. The State Government has allocated Rs25 crore per year and total Rs120 crore for five years. However Rs10 crore has been sanctioned to roll out the innovative programme. Under this programme annually around 80 lakh high risk population would be benefited.
This programme would expand to other high endemic districts in future.