Puducherry qualifies for subnational malaria elimination verification certification

PUDUCHERRY: The Union territory of Puducherry has been recognised as a Category 0 region for malaria, making it eligible to submit dossiers for subnational malaria elimination verification certification.

This recognition, confirmed by the Union govt, follows Puducherry’s success in reporting zero indigenous malaria cases. The last case of malaria reported in the territory was in 2020, said director (health and family welfare) S Sevvel in a release.With this recognition, Puducherry is now eligible to submit formal dossiers for sub-national malaria elimination verification certification. This process involves a comprehensive review of health records and vector control measures by national authorities to verify the elimination status officially. The achievement reflects the sustained efforts of the health department in monitoring migrant populations, implementing effective larval control, and ensuring rapid diagnosis.Sevvel said India aims to achieve zero indigenous cases by 2027 and malaria elimination certification by 2030.