Context:
The World Malaria Report 2025 highlights mixed progress in the Asia-Pacific region’s goal to eliminate malaria by 2030, citing drug resistance and funding constraints.
Key Highlights:
Regional Progress
- Cases reduced from 9.6 million (2023) to 8.9 million (2024).
• Gains in Pakistan, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Vietnam.
• 22 governments under Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance (APLMA) committed to elimination.
India’s Status
- Target to eliminate indigenous malaria by 2027.
• Progress plateauing; high-burden states require focus.
• Artemisinin resistance not yet established in India.
Emerging Concerns
- Drug resistance in Greater Mekong Subregion.
• Declining international funding.
• Vulnerability of migrant and remote populations.
• Surveillance gaps.
Vaccines & Technology
- Evaluation of RTS,S and R21 malaria vaccines.
• Emphasis on real-time, case-based surveillance.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Malaria caused by Plasmodium parasite, transmitted by Anopheles mosquito.
• Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT) is standard treatment.
• Vector control – insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual spraying.
• RTS,S and R21 are WHO-recommended malaria vaccines.
Relevant Mains Points:
- Social Justice & Health (GS 2)
• Malaria elimination linked to poverty reduction and health equity.
• Importance of universal healthcare access. - Science & Technology (GS 3)
• Drug resistance as emerging global health threat.
• Role of vaccines and diagnostics innovation. - International Relations (GS 2)
• Regional health diplomacy via APLMA.
• Funding role of Global Fund and multilateral agencies.
Way Forward
- Strengthen surveillance as core intervention.
• Increase domestic health financing.
• Focused interventions in high-burden districts.
• Integrate vaccine rollout strategically.
UPSC Relevance:
GS 2 – Health & Social Justice
GS 3 – Biotechnology & Public Health