Bhubaneswar, Apr 25: The world is observing the World Malaria Day, while Odisha faces renewed challenges in its fight against malaria. After years of decline, the state has witnessed a sharp resurgence in cases, raising concerns about public health and the government’s ambitious goal of achieving a malaria-free Odisha by 2030.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), malaria continues to affect 106 countries globally. Odisha remains one of India’s most malaria-prone states, with recent data showing a troubling rise in infections.

In 2022, the state reported 23,770 positive cases. By 2024, the number had surged to 68,639, and in 2025-26, 61,137 cases were recorded — nearly three times higher than two years earlier.

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Districts such as Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Rayagada, Koraput, Sundargarh, Nabarangpur, and Balangir have emerged as hotspots, with Kalahandi alone witnessing cases doubling in just two years. Boudh reported a six-fold increase compared to the previous year, while Malkangiri continues to require special campaigns for control.

Despite these challenges, the Odisha government remains committed to its 2030 target. In 2024-25, authorities distributed 5.55 million medicated mosquito nets across 21 high-burden districts.

Blood sample testing rates have been increased to 23.21%, and nearly 48,905 ASHA workers have been deployed to strengthen malaria eradication efforts at the grassroots level.

A flagship initiative, DAMaN (Durgam Anchalare Malaria Nirakaran), launched in 2017, has played a crucial role in reducing malaria prevalence in remote and Maoist-affected regions. Medical teams trek through forests, hills, and rivers to conduct mass screenings and provide immediate treatment.

This programme has led to an 80% reduction in malaria cases in targeted areas, earning praise from WHO.

The campaign even inspired the Odia film Daman (2022), which dramatized the struggles of a young doctor combating malaria and superstition in Malkangiri’s remote villages. The film, starring Babushaan Mohanty, was declared tax-free by the Odisha government and released nationwide in Hindi as well.