India’s malaria cases and deaths fell nearly 80% in a decade

India reduced both malaria cases and deaths by nearly 80% between 2015 and 2025, according to a review by the Union Health Ministry. Over the same period, the number of districts classified as high burden fell from 155 to 33.

The ministry also reported that 160 districts recorded no indigenous malaria cases during 2022 to 2025, indicating that local transmission had been interrupted in those areas. The remaining burden is increasingly concentrated: 33 districts across nine states and Union Territories accounted for 64% of India’s malaria cases and 54% of its malaria deaths in 2025.

Officials are now focusing on locally tailored district and village action plans as India works toward its 2030 malaria-elimination goal. The ministry called for stronger active surveillance, early diagnosis and complete treatment under its “Test, Treat and Track” strategy, along with reliable supplies of diagnostic services and antimalarial medicines in hard-to-reach and vulnerable communities.

The review also urged states to improve data quality and coordinate with local government bodies, community volunteers and self-help groups. Their roles include reporting fevers early, identifying mosquito-breeding sites and addressing waterlogging. Officials cautioned that continued vigilance will be essential to prevent malaria from returning in areas where transmission has stopped.