Goa has officially entered the Elimination Phase of malaria, with Health Minister Vishwajit Rane declaring an ambitious goal of complete eradication by 2025–26. This milestone reflects a major public health achievement for the state, underscored by its submission for the Sub-National Malaria Elimination Award for South Goa for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024.
The Directorate of Health Services is leading intensified efforts to tackle malaria and other vector-borne diseases (VBDs). Departments across the state have been directed to improve sanitation, especially in mosquito-prone zones, to eliminate breeding grounds.
In a proactive step under the Goa Public Health Act, regular malaria screenings are now mandatory for all laborers at construction sites. Workers will be issued health cards to ensure routine monitoring and quick response to any detected cases.
To further strengthen its strategy, the government is coordinating with public and private stakeholders. This inter-departmental collaboration aims to unify efforts in disease surveillance, sanitation, and health education.
Minister Rane stressed that government action alone is not enough. Community involvement is key to sustaining progress. Residents are urged to maintain clean surroundings, eliminate standing water, and report potential breeding sites to authorities.
As Goa pushes towards malaria eradication, authorities are calling on every citizen and institution to contribute to a vector-free environment. The state’s approach—combining robust policy, health infrastructure, and grassroots engagement—offers a replicable model for other regions.
If successful, Goa will not only achieve a critical public health milestone but also reaffirm its leadership in disease elimination efforts nationwide.