Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Health Minister Vishwajit Rane announced today that Goa is officially in the Elimination Phase of Malaria, with the ambitious target of complete eradication by 2025-26.
The state government has submitted a proposal for the Sub-National Malaria Elimination Award for South Goa for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024, marking a significant milestone in Goa’s public health journey.
In a press statement, Rane emphasized the ongoing efforts by the Directorate of Health Services to continue making strides in eliminating malaria and other vector-borne diseases (VBDs) from the state.
As part of this mission, the government has issued an advisory to various departments across the state to intensify focus on improving sanitation practices, particularly in areas that are prone to mosquito breeding.
“We are on the right path to achieving a malaria-free Goa, and this is only possible through coordinated efforts at every level. We aim to make this a reality by 2025–26. However, this will not be accomplished solely by the government.
Community involvement is critical,” stated Rane.
In addition to promoting sanitation, the government is also enforcing mandatory malaria screening for all laborers on construction sites under the Goa Public Health Act.
Health cards will be issued to all workers, ensuring they are screened regularly. Coordination with both government and private organizations is ongoing to further strengthen the fight against vector-borne diseases.
“We are working closely with various stakeholders to ensure that no stone is left unturned in our fight against malaria. This requires not just inter-departmental coordination, but also the active participation of the community,” said the Health Minister.
Public participation remains key in eliminating malaria. Residents are urged to keep their surroundings clean, eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites, and report any stagnant water bodies that could serve as breeding grounds.
As Goa moves closer to its goal of malaria elimination, Rane called upon all sectors of society to take responsibility for maintaining a VBD-free environment. “This is a collective effort,” he added. “Only with everyone’s cooperation can we truly say that Goa is free of vector-borne diseases.”
