Global Health

Malaria elimination in India

India has made major progress toward malaria elimination under its National Framework for Malaria Elimination (2016–2030), with cases falling by around 80% between 2015 and 2023. Many districts have already reported zero indigenous cases, and the country has exited the WHO High Burden to High Impact group. The strategy now focuses on strong surveillance through the “Test, Treat and Track” approach, universal access to diagnosis and treatment, and intensified vector control.

However, challenges remain in the form of migration, urban malaria, hard-to-reach tribal and forested areas, and the persistence of Plasmodium vivax, which can relapse. Drug and insecticide resistance are also emerging concerns. India aims to achieve zero indigenous cases by 2027 and full elimination by 2030, but success will depend on accurate reporting, strong urban and community participation, and preventing re-establishment of transmission in malaria-free areas.

COUNTERFEIT RABIES VACCINES & THE PUBLIC HEALTH CHALLENGE

A recent scare over counterfeit rabies vaccines has raised serious public-health concerns. Suspected fake or repackaged batches of a commonly used rabies vaccine were reported in multiple Indian cities, prompting advisories from several countries for travellers vaccinated in India. Investigations indicate that while most vials contained genuine vaccine, packaging was altered and government-supplied stock was likely diverted to the private market, revealing weaknesses in supply-chain monitoring. The incident risks creating vaccine hesitancy for a disease that is almost 100% fatal once symptoms appear. The crisis underscores the need for strict regulation, better tracking systems, strong law enforcement, transparent public communication, and assured availability of authentic vaccines and immunoglobulin to maintain trust and prevent avoidable deaths.

INDIA'S GENERICS DRUGS: ENSURING GLOBAL HEALTH SECURITY

India's pharmaceutical industry, known as the 'pharmacy of the world', has transformed affordable generic medicines into a global public good. By leveraging unique intellectual property laws and cost-effective manufacturing, India has broken monopolies on life-saving drugs like HIV/AIDS and COVID-19, redefining global health equity.