National Framework for Malaria Elimination in India (2016–2030) PDF

NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) DIRECTORATE OF NATIONAL VECTOR BORNE DISEASE CONTROL PROGRAMME (NVBDCP) DIRECTORATE GENERAL OF HEALTH SERVICES (DGHS) MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA Government of India CONTENTS ACRONYMS.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. v ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS........................................................................................................................................ vii PREFACE.......................................................................................................................................................................ix FOREWORD..................................................................................................................................................................x MESSAGE.....................................................................................................................................................................xi FRAMEWORK AT A GLANCE.................................................................................................................................xii EXECUTIVE SUMMARY......................................................................................................................................... xvi 1. INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................................................1 2. THE NEED FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA...............................................................................2 3. NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA 2016–2030...........................4 4. MEASURING PROGRESS AND IMPACT................................................................................................. 19 5. COST OF IMPLEMENTING THE FRAMEWORK.................................................................................... 21 6. NEXT STEPS.................................................................................................................................................. 23 7. REFERENCES................................................................................................................................................. 24 Annexes 1. India Country Profile................................................................................................................................. 25 2. History of Malaria Control in India....................................................................................................... 26 3. Overview of the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme..................................... 28 4. Current trends and epidemiological profile of malaria in India................................................ 33 5. Challenges in malaria control................................................................................................................ 39 6. Malaria epidemiological situation by state/UT (2000, 2013 and 2014).................................. 40 7. Malaria epidemiological situation for elimination planning by category............................. 42 iii ACRONYMS ABER annual blood examination rate ACT artemisinin-based combination therapy ACT-AL artemisinin-based combination therapy – artemether lumefantrine ACT-SP artemisinin-based combination therapy – sulfadoxine pyrimethamine AIM Action and Investment to defeat Malaria 2016–2030 An Anopheles API annual parasite incidence APLMA Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance APMEN Asia Pacific Malaria Elimination Network ASHA accredited social health activist BCC behaviour change communication CHC community health centre CRPF Central Reserve Police Force CSR corporate social responsibility DDT dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane GTS WHO Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016–2030 G6PD glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase HCH hexachlorocyclohexane IEC information, education and communication IPHS Indian Public Health Standards IRS indoor residual spraying ITN insecticide-treated net JMM joint monitoring mission LLIN long-lasting insecticidal net MDG Millennium Development Goals MDR multi-drug resistance v NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) MIS Malaria Information System NGO non-governmental organization NHM National Health Mission NVBDCP National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme Pf Plasmodium falciparum PHC primary health centre Pv Plasmodium vivax RBM Roll Back Malaria Partnership RDT rapid diagnostic test SC sub-centre SP synthetic pyrethroids SPR slide positivity rate TMAP Tribal Malaria Action Plan UMS Urban Malaria Scheme UT union territory WHO World Health Organization vi ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The National Framework for Malaria Elimination (NFME) in India 2016–2030 has been developed through an extensive consultative process beginning in October 2015, culminating in the launching of the Framework by the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on February 11 2016. The Framework was developed in close collaboration with officials from NVBDCP, experts from the Indian Council of Medical Research, WHO and representatives from civil society institutions, professional bodies and partners. The final document is the result of several rounds of review and consultations under the overall leadership of Dr A. C. Dhariwal, Director, NVBDCP. The development of the Framework was coordinated by Dr G. S. Sonal, Additional Director, NVBDCP, with overall responsibility of compilation assumed by Dr S. N. Sharma, Joint Director, NVBDCP. The work of drafting and revision of the document throughout the consultative process was undertaken by Saloni Mehra, Consultant, NVBDCP. Critical contributions for refinement of the Framework were received from Dr Avdhesh Kumar, Additional Director; Dr P. K. Srivastava, Joint Director; Dr Sukhvir Singh, Joint Director; Dr Suman Lata Wattal, Deputy Director; and Dr Sher Singh, Assistant Director of NVBDCP. Valuable inputs were also received from consultants Dr Amrish Gupta, Dr Disha Agarwal, Dr Pritam Roy and Dr Munish Joshi. The Directorate of NVBDCP is grateful to the Technical Advisory Committee on Vector Borne Diseases, chaired by Dr Jagdish Prasad, Director General of Health Services, for approving this Framework and providing valuable suggestions for its enhancement. The programme is also grateful to the Expert Committee on Malaria Diagnostics and Chemotherapy and Prospects of Malaria Elimination in India, chaired by Dr Shiv Lal, Ex-Special Director General of Health Services, for its overarching guidance and support. For reviewing and refining this national document, special thanks goes to the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare as well as state officials from the NVBDCP. The Directorate of NVBDCP gratefully acknowledges the indispensable contributions received towards the development of this Framework from Dr Mikhail Ejov, Consultant, WHO; Dr Eva Maria Christophel, Regional Advisor Malaria, WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia; Dr Leonard Ortega, Team Leader, Training and Capacity Building; WHO headquarters; and Dr Sivakumaran Murugasampillay, WHO headquarters. This would not have been possible without the continuous support of Dr Swarup Sarkar, Director Communicable Diseases, WHO vii NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) Regional Office for South-East Asia, and Dr Nicole Simone Seguy, Team Leader Communicable Diseases, WHO Country Office for India. The crucial comments and suggestions received from individual experts, partner organizations and research institutions have been extremely helpful towards the finalization of this Framework. The Directorate of NVBDCP is thankful for all of their contributions, especially to Dr A. Gunasekar, former National Professional Officer, WHO Country Office for India, Dr Shampa Nag, Project Director, Caritas India, Dr Neena Valecha, Director, National Institute of Malaria Research, and representatives from other private and civil society organizations who participated in the Brainstorming Meeting on the NFME 2016–2030 held in December 2015. The Directorate is thankful to staff of the WHO Country Office for India led by Dr Saurabh Jain, National Professional Officer, and Dr Nicole Simone Seguy, Team Leader Communicable Diseases, along with other team members for providing their support in planning and preparation of the Framework and editing and printing. The NFME 2016–2030 was developed in close alignment with the Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016–2030, Action and Investment to defeat Malaria 2016–2030 and the Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance Malaria Elimination Roadmap. Other WHO publications on malaria elimination and the national strategic plans of neighbouring countries served as important reference documents for development of this Framework. viii PREFACE ix NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) FOREWORD x MESSAGE xi NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) FRAMEWORK AT A GLANCE VISION Eliminate malaria nationally and contribute to improved health, quality of life and alleviation of poverty. GOALS In line with the WHO Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016–2030 (GTS) and the Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance Malaria Elimination Roadmap, the goals of the National Framework for Malaria Elimination in India 2016–2030 are:. Eliminate malaria (zero indigenous cases) throughout the entire country by 2030; and Maintain malaria–free status in areas where malaria transmission has been interrupted and prevent re-introduction of malaria. OBJECTIVES The Framework has four objectives: Eliminate malaria from all 26 low (Category 1) and moderate (Category 2) transmission states/union territories (UTs) by 2022; Reduce the incidence of malaria to less than 1 case per 1000 population per year in all states and UTs and their districts by 2024; Interrupt indigenous transmission of malaria throughout the entire country, including all high transmission states and union territories (UTs) (Category 3) by 2027; and Prevent the re-establishment of local transmission of malaria in areas where it has been eliminated and maintain national malaria-free status by 2030 and beyond. xii STRATEGIC APPROACHES 1. Programme phasing Malaria elimination in India will be carried out in a phased manner because various parts of the country differ in their malaria endemicity due to differences in their eco-epidemiological settings, socioeconomic conditions, health system development and malaria control accomplishments. Malaria incidence in high transmission areas (Category 3) must be lowered first before it is possible and rational to investigate each case. States/UTs will be subdivided into four categories with annual parasite incidence (API) as the primary criteria, and the annual blood examination rate (ABER) and slide positivity rate (SPR) as secondary criteria (see Table 1). Category specific milestones and targets will be set up and strategies implemented subsequently. Table 1: Classification of states/UTs based on API as primary criteria S. No. Categories of states/UTs Definition 1. Category 0: Prevention of States/UTs with zero indigenous cases of malaria. re-establishment phase 2. Category 1: Elimination phase States/UTs (15) including their districts reporting an API of less than 1 case per 1000 population at risk. 3. Category 2: Pre-elimination States/UTs (11) with an API of less than 1 case per 1000 phase population at risk, but some of their districts are reporting an API of 1 case per 1000 population at risk or above. 4. Category 3: Intensified control States/UTs (10) with an API of 1 case per 1000 population at risk phase or above. 2. District as the unit of planning and implementation Apart from the category to which they belong, each state/UT will be advised to further classify their districts so that even if a state/UT is not yet in the elimination phase, but has some districts with an API below 1 case per 1000 population at risk, those may be considered eligible for initiating elimination phase activities provided they meet the secondary criteria. In addition, states/UTs may also sub-classify districts into community health centres, community health centres into primary health centres, primary health centres into sub-centres, and sub-centres into villages for localized planning and implementation. xiii NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) 3. Focus on high transmission areas The majority of malaria is being reported from states in the eastern, central and north-eastern part of the country, such as Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tripura and Meghalaya. Most of these states are characterized by widespread hilly, tribal, forested and conflict-affected areas which are pockets of high malaria transmission. An aggressive scaling up of existing interventions, intensification of all malaria control activities and innovative strategies and partnerships will be carried out in these high endemic pockets to rapidly reduce malaria morbidity and mortality. 4. Special strategy for P. vivax elimination According to the World Malaria Report 2015, more than 80% of the global P. vivax burden is contributed by 3 countries including India1. This serious challenge to malaria elimination efforts within the country will require special measures to be undertaken, such as good quality microscopy to detect all P. vivax infections, operational research to estimate prevalence of G6PD deficiency in the population, appropriate vector control measures, and ensuring good compliance to 14-day radical treatment with primaquine in affected individuals. These measures are in line with the WHO Control and Elimination of Plasmodium vivax Malaria – A Technical Brief.2 MILESTONES AND TARGETS By end of 2016 All states/UTs have included malaria elimination in their broader health policies and planning frameworks. By 2020 Transmission of malaria interrupted and zero indigenous cases and deaths due to malaria attained in all 15 states/UTs under Category 1 (elimination phase) in 2014 (base year). All 11 states/UTs under Category 2 (pre-elimination phase) in 2014 enter into Category 1 (elimination phase). Five states/UTs under Category 3 (intensified control phase) in 2014 enter into Category 2 (pre-elimination phase). Five states/UTs under Category 3 (intensified control phase) in 2014 reduce malaria transmission but continue to remain in Category 3. xiv An estimated reduction in malaria of 15–20% at the national level compared with 2014. Additionally, progressive states with strong health systems such as Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka may implement accelerated malaria elimination programmes to achieve interruption of transmission and demonstrate early elimination followed by sustenance of zero indigenous cases. By 2022 Transmission of malaria interrupted and zero indigenous cases and deaths due to malaria attained in all 26 states/UTs that were under Categories 1 and 2 in 2014. Five states/UTs which were under Category 3 (intensified control phase) in 2014 enter into elimination phase. Five states/UTs which were under Category 3 (intensified control phase) in 2014 enter into pre-elimination phase. An estimated reduction in malaria of 30–35% at the national level compared with 2014. By 2024 All states/UTs and their respective districts reduce API to less than 1 case per 1000 population at risk and sustain zero deaths due to malaria while maintaining fully functional malaria surveillance to track, investigate and respond to each case throughout the country. Transmission of malaria interrupted and zero indigenous cases and deaths due to malaria attained in all 31 states/UTs. Five states/UTs which were under Category 3 (intensified control phase) in 2014 enter into elimination phase. By 2027 The indigenous transmission of malaria in India interrupted. By 2030 The re-establishment of local transmission prevented in areas where malaria has been eliminated. The malaria-free status maintained throughout the nation. xv NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Malaria is a major public health problem in India but is preventable and curable. Malaria interventions are highly cost-effective and demonstrate one of the highest returns on investment in public health. In countries where the disease is endemic, efforts to control and eliminate malaria are increasingly viewed as high-impact strategic investments that generate significant returns for public health, help to alleviate poverty, improve equity and contribute to overall development. Each case of malaria has been shown to cost households at least US$ 2.67 (range US$ 0.34– 7.66) in direct out-of-pocket expenses. In adults, this leads to an average of 3.4 days (range 2–6 days) of lost productivity, at a minimum additional indirect cost of US$ 10.85. Mothers and other carers sacrifice a further 2–4 days each time a child or other family member contracts malaria, generating yet more indirect costs for households3. Even though such estimates and studies are few and still evolving in India, the total economic burden from malaria could be around US$ 1940 million. Death rates are not a significant factor because 75% of the burden comes from lost earnings and 24% from treatment costs4. A malaria burden analysis inferred that every Rupee invested in malaria control in India (1994) produces a direct return of Indian Rupees 19.705. From the beginning of the 21st century, India has demonstrated significant achievements in malaria control with a progressive decline in total cases and deaths. Overall, malaria cases have consistently declined from 2 million in 2001 to 0.88 million in 2013, although an increase to 1.13 million cases occurred in 2014 due to focal outbreaks. The incidence of malaria in the country therefore was 0.08% in a population of nearly 1.25 billion. In 2015, 1.13 million cases (provisional) were also reported. It is worthwhile to note that confirmed deaths due to malaria have also declined from 1005 in 2001 to 562 in 2014. In 2015, the reported number of deaths has further declined to 287 (provisional). Overall, in the last 10 years, total malaria cases declined by 42%, from 1.92 million in 2004 to 1.1 million in 2014, combined with a 40.8% decline in malaria- related deaths from 949 to 562. India contributes 70% of malaria cases and 69% of malaria deaths in the South-East Asia Region. However, a WHO projection showed an impact in terms of a decrease of 50–75% in the number of malaria cases by 2015 in India (relative to 2000 baseline), which showed that the country has been on track to decrease case incidence 2000–20151. xvi During 2000, 17 states and union territories (UTs) had an annual parasite incidence (API) of less than one case per thousand population at risk. Overall, in 2014 and 2015, in 26 and 27 states/ UTs respectively, the incidence of malaria was brought down to an API of less than one case per thousand. In 2000, 370 districts also had an API of less than one case per thousand population at risk. In 2014 and 2015, of a total of 677 districts (reporting units), 527 (78%) reported an API of less than one case per thousand population at risk. Presently, 80% of malaria occurs among 20% of people classified as “high risk”, although approximately 82% of the country’s population lives in malaria transmission risk areas. These populations at high-risk for malaria are found in some 200 districts of Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, West Bengal and seven north-eastern states. Undoubtedly, such reduction of malaria morbidity and mortality reflects tangible success relative to the pre-independence era, before the launch of the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP) in 1953, when malaria was a major public health problem with 75 million cases and 0.8 million deaths, causing enormous human suffering and loss to the nation, both in terms of manpower and money. Previously, there were tremendous achievements made in bringing down the malaria burden with the overwhelming success of the NMCP leading to the launch of the National Malaria Eradication Programme (NMEP) in 1958. The NMEP was also initially a great success with malaria incidence dropping to 0.1 million cases with no deaths reported in 1965. However, the resurgence of malaria due to technical, operational and financial complexities resulted in an escalation of incidence to 6.4 million cases in 1976. With the Urban Malaria Scheme (UMS) implemented in 1971–1972 and a renewed focus and commitment, in 1977 the Modified Plan of Operation (MPO) and the Plasmodium falciparum containment programme (PfCP) were launched and malaria incidence was reduced to around two million cases per year by 1984. Amply demonstrating the success of the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) is the fact that 75 million cases and 0.8 million deaths annually due to malaria in the pre-independence era fell to 1.1 million cases and 562 deaths in 2014. These achievements in reducing the malaria burden in the country were also due to new tools such as rapid diagnostic tests, artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) and long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs). Also playing a part were major initiatives and interventions including additional human resources, capacity building, community level awareness building and mobilization, partnerships, strengthened monitoring and evaluation, and investments from domestic and external sources such as the Global Fund and the World Bank. Under the umbrella of the National Health Mission, overall health systems strengthening also contributed. xvii NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) The WHO has recently released the Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016–20306, which advocates acceleration of global malaria elimination efforts and has set targets to reduce malaria mortality rate and malaria case incidence globally by 90% by 2030 (baseline 2015); eliminate malaria from at least 35 countries in which malaria was transmitted in 2015; and prevent re-establishment of malaria in all countries that are malaria-free. In November 2014, the Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance (APLMA) representing 18 countries, including India, agreed to the goal of a region free of malaria by 2030. The APLMA Malaria Elimination Roadmap was endorsed in November 2015 in alignment with the WHO Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016–2030, and the Roll Back Malaria Partnership document Action and Investment to defeat Malaria 2016–2030. By committing to the roadmap, leaders can catalyse united action across the Asia Pacific through a multipronged approach: greater coordination as a key path to progress; unifying national approaches; linking and harmonizing regional efforts; and increasing partnerships7. Further, malaria reduction and elimination efforts will be a measure of progress and contribute to and benefit from the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, especially Goal 3: ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. The goal explicitly sets the target of ending the epidemics of AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and neglected tropical diseases and combat hepatitis, water- borne diseases and other communicable diseases. In line with international strategies, timelines, and with solid commitments at the highest leadership level in India and, importantly, buoyed by the achievements of a declining malaria trend, India is confident to embark upon a paradigm shift from control to elimination in 2016. Tailor-made and targeted interventions will be aimed at the continuous and gradual transition of states/UTs, districts, primary health centres and sub-centres to malaria-free areas. Special emphasis will be on hilly, tribal, forested and border areas that are difficult to reach, often conflict prone/affected, lacking optimal health systems and infrastructure and seeing large population movements. These areas have specific socio-demographic conditions including a multiplicity of ethnic groups, who are often migrant/mobile, poor, marginalized, and illiterate, with variable living conditions and health-seeking behaviours. Additionally, prevention of the possible emergence or importation of malaria multi-drug resistance including resistance to artemisinin-based combination therapies from neighbouring countries will be underscored. Available tools also need to be scaled up before they become ineffective. Throughout, evidence generation, successes and lessons learnt will guide course corrections. As malaria is characterized by focal occurrences and achievements made with reduction in mortality and morbidity are fragile without constant attention to the existing malaria challenges, the sustaining of gains is critical as there is a risk of turning low endemic areas back into high risk areas. xviii Against this background and in consideration of the WHO GTS and APLMA Malaria Elimination Roadmap, the National Framework for Malaria Elimination (NFME) 2016–2030 has been developed together with partners and key stakeholders. The vision is to eliminate malaria nationally and contribute to improved health, quality of life and alleviation of poverty. The NFME has clearly defined goals, objectives, strategies, targets and timelines and will serve as a roadmap for advocating and planning malaria elimination throughout the country in a phased manner. Necessary guidance is expressed for rolling out the strategies and related interventions in each state/UT as per respective epidemiological situation. The objectives are to: (1) Eliminate malaria from all Category 1 and Category 2 states/UTs (26) with low and moderate-transmission of malaria by 2022; (2) Reduce the incidence of malaria to less than one case per 1000 population per year in all states/UTs and their districts and achieve malaria elimination in 31 states/UTs by 2024; (3) Interrupt indigenous transmission of malaria in all states/UTs (Category 3) by 2027; and (4) Prevent re-establishment of local transmission of malaria in areas where it has been eliminated and maintain malaria-free status nationally by 2030. The milestones and targets are set for 2016, 2020, 2022, 2024, 2027 and 2030. It is expected that by 2030 the entire country will have sustained zero indigenous cases and deaths due to malaria for three years and initiated the process for WHO certification of malaria elimination. By the end of 2016, all states/UTs are expected to include malaria elimination in their broader health policies and planning framework; and by end of 2020, 15 states/UTs under Category 1 (elimination phase) are expected to interrupt transmission of malaria and achieve zero indigenous cases and deaths due to malaria. It is also envisaged that in states with relatively good capacity and health infrastructure, namely, Gujarat, Karnataka and Maharashtra, accelerated efforts may usher in malaria elimination sooner. The NFME 2016–2030 defines such key strategic approaches as: programme phasing considering the varying malaria endemicity in the country; classification of states/UTs based on API as primary criteria (Category 0: Prevention of re-establishment phase; Category 1: Elimination phase; Category 2: Pre-elimination phase; Category 3: Intensified control phase); districts as the unit of planning and implementation; focus on high endemic areas; and a special strategy for P. vivax elimination. An enabling environment and necessary resources are critical to achieving the objective of malaria elimination. xix 1. INTRODUCTION Disease burden due to malaria in India has been reduced significantly over the years with an overall decline in malaria–related morbidity and mortality (see Annexes 4 and 6). This has been made possible by a series of interventions undertaken in the last decade, such as the introduction of artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) for P. falciparum malaria in 2004– 2005, introduction of malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for detection of P. falciparum cases in 2004–2005, imposition of a country-wide ban on oral artemisinin monotherapy in 2009, introduction of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) in 2009 and revision of the National Drug Policy for malaria in 20138 (see Annexes 1, 2 and 3). However, a number of challenges have emerged in recent years which pose a threat to the country’s progress in its fight against malaria (see Annex 5). These include the development of antimalarial drug resistance and insecticide resistance in some parts of the country, development of malaria multi-drug resistance including ACT resistance in neighbouring countries, rapid urbanization leading to emergence of malaria in urban areas, existence of high endemic malaria pockets in hard-to-reach areas and in tribal populations, climate change and increased tourism and migration9, 10. All these factors can seriously hamper the country’s malaria control efforts and therefore deserve urgent attention. In order to address these challenges, a national strategy for malaria elimination has been envisaged prompting the development of the National Framework for Malaria Elimination in India 2016–2030. The main focus of this Framework is to propel India on the path towards malaria elimination in a phased manner. Under this Framework, all states/UTs have been grouped into one of four categories based on their malaria burden, specific objectives have been established for each of these categories and a mix of interventions will be implemented in each of them. Efforts for malaria elimination will be simultaneously undertaken in low-transmission areas (states/ UTs under Category 1); efforts for pre-elimination will be undertaken in moderate transmission areas (states/UTs under Category 2); and efforts for intensified control will be undertaken in high transmission areas (states/UTs under Category 3) to achieve and sustain malaria elimination in the entire country by 2030. Additionally, areas with moderate or high transmission of malaria but progressive health systems may proceed towards elimination earlier than the stated milestones and targets based on their performance. This Framework will be implemented by the Directorate of National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) which is the umbrella programme for prevention and control of malaria and five other vector borne diseases. The programme functions under the aegis of the Directorate General of Health Services within the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. 1 NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) 2. THE NEED FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA Recent trends in malaria control efforts globally and in India demonstrate that achievements can be fragile, making sustained efforts vital. Scientific breakthroughs in recent years have provided better tools such as new drugs, diagnostics and vector control strategies. These tools need to be utilized and scaled up rapidly before they become ineffective in preventing or controlling malaria11, 12 Additionally, there is also a growing threat of the spread of malaria multi-drug resistance including resistance to artemisinin-based combination therapies from the neighbouring Greater Mekong Subregion countries13, coupled with the shortage of new and effective antimalarials14, 15. All these reasons underscore the importance of shifting the country’s focus from malaria control to malaria elimination. WHO has recently developed the Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016–2030 which advocates global acceleration of malaria elimination efforts.6 The Strategy for Malaria Elimination in the Greater Mekong Subregion (2015–2030) sets 2030 as a target for the six Greater Mekong Subregion countries16. Similarly, the Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance (APLMA), of which India is a member, has set a target for malaria elimination in all countries of the Asia Pacific region by 2030 as per its Malaria Elimination Roadmap7. India endorses these global and regional strategies for malaria elimination and has aligned its own national strategy on the same timelines. Malaria incidence has dropped to such low levels in some states/UTs in India that interruption of transmission has become a feasible objective in these states/UTs, and in another few years the interruption can be expected even in states/UTs with moderate transmission of malaria. In states/UTs with high transmission of malaria, a massive scale-up of preventive and curative interventions is expected to substantially reduce the transmission intensity and reservoir of infection. There is also a need to ensure close coordination of malaria elimination activities with neighbouring countries, particularly where frequent movement takes place across international borders. With reports of artemisinin resistance emerging from bordering countries such as Myanmar13, moving towards malaria elimination will be a step in the right direction, as is being done by countries in the Greater Mekong Subregion. Any further delay in addressing 2 the problem of P. falciparum malaria could lead to the deterioration of the malaria situation and the emergence of multi-drug resistance, including resistance to artemisinin-based combination therapies. Finally, there is now an increasing political commitment and participation of partners in the country’s march towards malaria elimination. This is shown by the participation of the Indian Prime Minister among the 18 leaders who endorsed the APLMA Malaria Elimination Roadmap released at the recently concluded East Asia Summit held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in November, 2015.17 3 NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) 3. NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA 2016–2030 VISION Eliminate malaria nationally and contribute to improved health, quality of life and alleviation of poverty. GOALS In line with the WHO Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016–2030 (GTS) and the Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance (APLMA) Malaria Elimination Roadmap for the Asia Pacific, the goals of the National Framework for Malaria Elimination in India 2016-2030 are: Eliminate malaria (zero indigenous cases) throughout the entire country by 2030; and Maintain malaria-free status in areas where malaria transmission has been interrupted and prevent re-introduction of malaria. OBJECTIVES The Framework has four objectives. Eliminate malaria from all 26 low (Category 1) and moderate (Category 2) transmission states/union territories (UTs) by 2022; Reduce the incidence of malaria to less than 1 case per 1000 population per year in all states and UTs and their districts by 2024; Interrupt indigenous transmission of malaria throughout the entire country, including all high transmission states and UTs (Category 3) by 2027; and Prevent the re-establishment of local transmission of malaria in areas where it has been eliminated and maintain national malaria-free status by 2030 and beyond. 4 STRATEGIC APPROACHES 1. Programme phasing The epidemiological situation of malaria in India is diverse. States and UTs are presently in various stages of malaria elimination, based on differences in their eco-epidemiological settings, socioeconomic conditions, health system development and malaria control accomplishments. Bearing this in mind, it has been envisaged that malaria elimination in India will be carried out in a phased manner. Programme phasing is necessary, because certain parts of the country belong to different phases and malaria transmission must be lowered before it is possible and rational to investigate each case. This prioritization does not mean that efforts to eliminate malaria in low endemic areas (Category 1) will be put on hold, only that such efforts will go on simultaneously with efforts to reduce malaria transmission in high endemic areas (Category 3). As detailed in Table 2 below, states/UTs will be subdivided into four categories with annual parasite incidence (API) as primary criteria and other malaria indicators such as the annual blood examination rate (ABER) and slide positivity rate (SPR) as secondary criteria. Subsequently, category specific milestones and targets will be set and specific strategies will be implemented. The category data on malaria for all 36 states and UTs is provided at Annex 7. Table 2: Classification of states/UTs based on API as primary criteria S. No. Categories of states/UTs Definition 1. Category 0: Prevention of States/UTs with zero indigenous cases of malaria. re-establishment phase 2. Category 1: Elimination phase States/UTs (15) including their districts reporting an API of less than 1 case per 1000 population at risk. 3. Category 2: Pre-elimination phase States/UTs (11) with an API of less than 1 case per 1000 population at risk, but some of their districts are reporting an API of 1/1000 or above. 4. Category 3: Intensified control States/UTs (10) with an API of 1 case per 1000 population at risk phase or above. The intensified control phase will aim to bring malaria incidence down in all high-transmission districts (Category 3) to an API of less than 1 case per 1000 population at risk, when elimination can be considered. In areas that are in the pre-elimination phase (Category 2), particular attention will be paid to revision of the surveillance system and development of an elimination programme that must be completed before entering into the elimination phase. 5 NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) Setting up a case-and foci-based surveillance with population-based reporting from all public health facilities and full participation of the private sector assuming well developed health services, mandatory reporting of/notifying each case of malaria, and a strong conviction that nothing is being missed is crucial and a core function in the elimination phase (Category 1) states and UTs with an API of less than 1 case per 1000 population at risk in all districts. Finally, all states/UTs which have achieved elimination through interruption of indigenous transmission of malaria will qualify for the prevention of re-establishment phase (Category 0), with the main focus on sustaining malaria elimination status and preventing onward transmission. 2. District as the unit of planning and implementation Apart from the category to which they belong, each state/UT will be advised to further classify their districts so that even if a given state/UT is not yet in the elimination phase, but has some districts with an API of less than 1 case per 1000 population at risk, those district(s) may be considered eligible for initiating elimination phase activities provided they meet the secondary criteria. In addition, states/UTs may also sub-classify districts into into community health centres, community health centres into primary health centres, primary health centres into sub-centres, and sub-centres into villages for localized planning and implementation. Such an approach is necessary because of the tremendous variation in the epidemiological situation of malaria within each state/UT. A state/UT with an API of less than 1 case per 1000 population at risk may have several districts with very low API. Similarly, states/UTs with an overall API of less than 1 case per 1000 population at risk may have a few high transmission districts with an API of less than 1 case per 1000 population at risk or more. It warrants the tailoring of interventions to the local situation and as such, the district is considered to be a useful functional unit for planning as well as monitoring malaria elimination interventions. 3. Focus on high transmission areas In the year 2014, five out of 36 states/UTs contributed to more than 70% of the total malaria cases in the country. These were Odisha (36%), Chhattisgarh (12%), Jharkhand (9%), Madhya Pradesh (9%) and Maharashtra (5%). Historically, the above mentioned states and north-eastern states such as Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, which have a wide coverage of forest, hilly, tribal and conflict-affected areas, contributed the majority of malaria in the country. An aggressive scaling up of existing interventions and intensification of all malaria control activities will be carried out in these high transmission areas. Intersectoral collaboration and partnerships will be strengthened for filling gaps in programme implementation wherever needed. Innovation, 6 research and regular progress monitoring will play a crucial role in reducing the high transmission of malaria in these areas. 4. Special strategy for P. vivax elimination As per the World Malaria Report 2015, more than 80% of the global P. vivax burden is contributed by 3 countries including India.1 P. vivax malaria is a serious challenge to malaria elimination efforts within the country due to a multitude of reasons. The parasite can survive in cooler climates, is less responsive to conventional methods of vector control, is more difficult to detect using conventional diagnostic tools, treatment of liver stage parasites requires a 14 day course of primaquine which can produce some serious side effects. Moreover, a significant proportion of P. vivax cases are being reported from urban areas. Special measures such as good quality microscopy to detect all P. vivax infections, operational research to estimate prevalence of G6PD deficiency in the population, appropriate vector control measures and ensuring good compliance to 14-day radical treatment with primaquine in affected individuals will be undertaken to address this challenge. Intensive measures to reduce malaria transmission in urban areas will also help to address the P. vivax burden in the country. These measures will be in line with the WHO technical brief on control and elimination of P. vivax malaria.2 MILESTONES AND TARGETS The following time-frame, with milestones and targets, is proposed for implementation of the National Framework for Malaria Elimination in India 2016–2030. By end of 2016 All states/UTs have included malaria elimination in their broader health policies and planning frameworks. By 2020 Transmission of malaria interrupted and zero indigenous cases and deaths due to malaria attained in all 15 states/UTs under Category 1 (elimination phase) in 2014 (base year). All 11 states/UTs under Category 2 (pre-elimination phase) in 2014 enter into Category 1 (elimination phase). Five states/UTs under Category 3 (intensified control phase) in 2014 enter into Category 2 (pre-elimination phase). 7 NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) Five states/UTs under Category 3 (intensified control phase) in 2014 reduce malaria transmission but continue to remain in Category 3. An estimated reduction in malaria of 15–20% at the national level compared with 2014. Additionally, progressive states with strong health systems such as Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka may implement accelerated malaria elimination programmes to achieve interruption of transmission and demonstrate early elimination followed by sustenance of zero indigenous cases. By 2022 Transmission of malaria interrupted and zero indigenous cases and deaths due to malaria attained in all 26 states/UTs that were under Categories 1 and 2 in 2014. Five states/UTs which were under Category 3 (intensified control phase) in 2014 enter into elimination phase. Five states/UTs which were under Category 3 (intensified control phase) in 2014 enter into pre-elimination phase. An estimated reduction in malaria of 30–35% at the national level compared with 2014. By 2024 All states/UTs and their respective districts reduce API of less than 1 case per 1000 population at risk and sustain zero deaths due to malaria while maintaining fully functional malaria surveillance to track, investigate and respond to each case throughout the country. Transmission of malaria interrupted and zero indigenous cases and deaths due to malaria attained in all 31 states/UTs. Five states/UTs which were under Category 3 (intensified control phase) in 2014 enter into elimination phase. By 2027 The indigenous transmission of malaria in India interrupted. 8 By 2030 The re-establishment of local transmission prevented in areas where malaria has been eliminated. The malaria-free status maintained throughout the nation. India initiates the process of WHO certification of malaria elimination. KEY INTERVENTIONS In order to attain the stated goals, objectives, milestones and targets formulated under this national Framework, key interventions and their specific packages have been identified. All activities, milestones and targets envisaged under the national Framework are in line with global and regional goals set under the GTS, the APLMA Roadmap for Malaria Elimination Roadmap and the Action and Investment to defeat Malaria 2016- 2030 document and in line with national goals and targets set under the Strategic Action Plan for Malaria Control in India 2012–2017, the National Health Policy 2002, and India’s planning and development cycle. However, these may be modified for implementation purposes as per feasibility. In order to succeed, the National Framework on Malaria Elimination in India 2016–2030 has been translated into a national plan of action by establishing category specific interventions. These interventions will be detailed in an operational manual for malaria elimination which will serve as a practical guide for implementation of this Framework. The specific objectives and key interventions recommended for each category are detailed below. Category 3 (Intensified Control Phase) The specific objectives and key interventions recommended for Category 3 (intensified control phase) states/UTs are detailed in Table 3. 9 NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) Table 3: Specific objectives and key interventions in intensified control phase Specific Objectives Key Interventions Achieve universal Massive scaling up of existing disease management and coverage with malaria preventive approaches and tools, aimed at a significant preventive and curative reduction in the prevalence and incidence of malaria as well services. as associated deaths. Establish an efficient Screening of all fever cases suspected for malaria. system to reduce Classification of areas as per local malaria epidemiology and ongoing transmission grading of areas as per risk of malaria transmission followed of malaria. by implementation of tailored interventions. Reduce malaria- Strengthening of intersectoral collaboration. specific morbidity and mortality. Special interventions for high risk groups such as tribal populations and populations residing in conflict affected or Contain and prevent hard-to-reach areas. possible outbreaks of malaria, particularly One-stop centres or mobile clinics on fixed days in tribal among non-immune or conflict affected areas to provide malaria diagnosis and high risk mobile and treatment, and increasing community awareness with the migrant population involvement of other agencies and service providers as groups. required. Emphasize reducing Timely referral and treatment of severe malaria cases to malaria morbidity reduce malaria-related mortality. and mortality in high Strengthening all district and subdistrict hospitals in malaria transmission pockets endemic areas as per Indian Public Health Standards with such as tribal, hilly, facilities for management of severe malaria cases. forested and conflict Establishment of a robust supply chain management system. affected areas. Maintenance of an optimum level of surveillance using appropriate diagnostic measures. Equipping all health institutions (primary health care level and above), especially in high-risk areas, with microscopy facilities and RDTs for emergency use and injectable artemisinin derivatives for treatment of severe malaria. Category 2 (Pre-elimination Phase) The states/UTs in pre-elimination phase are those close to entering the elimination phase. Therefore, malaria elimination interventions will be introduced with particular focus on setting up an elimination surveillance system and initiating elimination phase activities in those districts where the API has been reduced to less than 1 case per 1000 population at risk per year. The planning of elimination measures will be based on epidemiological investigation and classification of each malaria case and focus. 10 Table 4: Specific objectives and key interventions in elimination phase Specific Objectives Key Interventions Interrupt transmission of In elimination areas, where transmission is focal and incidence/ malaria. risk has become extremely low, all efforts will be directed at Immediately notify each interrupting local transmission in all active foci of malaria. detected case. Mandatory notification of each case of malaria from the private Detect any possible sector, other organized government sectors or any other health continuation of malaria facility. transmission. Adequate case-based surveillance and complete case management Determine the underlying established and fully functional across the entire country to handle causes of residual each case of malaria. transmission. Investigation and classification of all foci of malaria. Forecast and prevent A strict total coverage of all active foci by effective vector control any unusual situations measures. related to malaria, ensure Early detection and treatment of all cases of malaria by means epidemic preparedness of active and/or passive case detection to prevent onward and respond in a timely transmission. and efficient manner to outbreak situations. State and national level malaria elimination database established and operational. Prevent re-establishment of local transmission of Implementation of interventions for effective screening, malaria. management and prevention of malaria among mobile and migrant populations. Ascertain elimination of malaria. Establishment of an effective epidemic forecasting and response system. Ensuring rigorous quality assurance of all medicines and diagnostics. Setting up a national-level reference laboratory which will serve the following two functions. —— All positive and a fixed percentage of negative slides will be referred to this laboratory for confirmation of diagnosis and cross-checking. After elimination has been achieved in each State/UT, 100% of cases will be notified to this laboratory for confirmation of diagnosis. The laboratory will be notified immediately on all positive cases of malaria by each state/UT through either SMS, e-mail or telephone with information on name, gender, address (village and district), date and type of testing and type of parasite for each positive case of malaria so that a national level database can be maintained. —— Training of master trainers and accreditation/certification of microscopists as per Indian Public Health Standards shall also be undertaken at this laboratory. During investigation of foci, all suspected cases of malaria are to be screened for malaria. These could include household members, neighbours, schoolchildren, workplace colleagues and relatives. Surveillance of special groups, migrant populations or populations residing in the vicinity of industrial areas are also to be covered under surveillance operations. 11 NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) Category 1 (Elimination Phase) The specific objectives and key interventions recommended for the Category 1 (elimination phase) states/UTs are detailed in Table 4 above. Category 0 (Prevention of Re-establishment Phase) The probability of malaria becoming re-established in a malaria free area varies with the level of receptivity and vulnerability of the area. If either of these factors is zero, the probability of malaria becoming re-established is zero even if the other factor has a high value. When importation of malaria due to the arrival of migrants from a malaria area coincides with increase in receptivity because of halted vector control measures or socioeconomic development of an area for example, re-establishment of malaria transmission is possible. In the absence of appropriate action, the area is likely to become malarious again and the duration is determined by the level of receptivity and vulnerability. When any area, whether a state/UT or a district within a state/UT, has achieved malaria elimination, the specific objectives will be as follows: detect any re-introduced case of malaria; notify immediately all detected cases of malaria; determine the underlying causes of resumed local transmission; apply rapid curative and preventive measures; prevent re-introduction and possible re-establishment of malaria transmission; and maintain malaria-free status in these areas. Cross-cutting interventions Some interventions will be common to all categories of states/UTs and are detailed below. Policy and planning 1. Formation of a National Malaria Elimination Committee comprising of representatives from NVBDCP, WHO, research institutions, academia, private and civil society stakeholders for oversight of all malaria elimination activities in the country. 12 2. Form a technical working group as part of the National Malaria Elimination Committee for formulation of relevant policies and guidelines as well as for regular monitoring of progress towards elimination and prevention of re-introduction in areas which have achieved elimination. 3. Revision of national guidelines for vector control, quality assurance, intersectoral collaboration, information, education and communication (IEC)/behaviour change communication (BCC) and other relevant areas for prevention, intensified control and elimination of malaria. 4. Revision of national or state level policy/legislation for all states and UTs planned for elimination to classify malaria as a notifiable disease. 5. Formulation of a new surveillance and reporting strategy on the lines of China’s ‘1-3-7’ strategy18 for case notification, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up at the community level in a time bound manner. This will be different for each category of state/UT and based on the lines of 3Ts or Test, Treat and Track approach. 6. Formulation of clear parameters for states/UTs to qualify for a certain category or transition from one category to another, as per stratification norms. 7. Verification of each state/UT for malaria elimination by the National Malaria Elimination Committee, based on fixed parameters. 8. Formulation of a mechanism for ensuring ownership of the programme by concerned authorities and participation of stakeholders at each level. Monitoring and evaluation 1. Introduction of a new web-based reporting system to facilitate timely notification and analysis of malaria transmission. 2. Revision of monitoring and evaluation formats. 3. Estimation of vector control coverage, including long-lasting insecticidal mosquito net (LLIN) or insecticide treated nets (ITN) use and indoor residual spraying (IRS) coverage, in each state/UT at district, sub-district, block and village levels. 4. Use of an annual scoring system for evaluating progress against elimination milestones and targets at national, state and district levels. 5. Data validation by an external agency when any state/UT achieves malaria elimination or transitions from one category of malaria elimination into another. 6. Grading of all areas within a state/UT for endemicity or risk of malaria on the basis of fixed parameters. 13 NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) Stratification 1. Stratification of all states/UTs into four categories based on their API, APER and SPR. 2. Sub-stratification of all districts within each state/UT using the same criteria. 3. Further stratification of CHCs, PHCs, SCs and villages within each district using the same criteria and implementation of strata-specific strategies. 4. Feasibility assessment of each state/UT before planning elimination. Surveillance 1. Entomological surveillance: all entomological units in the country to be made functional and strengthened. 2. Strengthening of routine surveillance for reducing malaria transmission in high transmission areas, and establishing case-based surveillance as a core intervention for elimination areas. Quality assurance 1. Quality assurance of all medicines, diagnostics, treatment and vector control supplies as per internationally accepted standards. 2. All malaria microscopy services in the country to be quality assured as per internationally accepted standards to ensure quality of services provided for malaria diagnosis. 3. All testing facilities for malaria across states/UTs to be part of a national quality management network. 4. Private sector laboratories providing malaria diagnosis in the country to be identified and laboratory technicians certified. Intersectoral collaboration 1. Formulation of clearly defined roles and responsibilities for private providers, NGOs as well as other organized government sector organizations such as the Armed Forces, Central Reserve Police Force, Border Security Force. 2. District-wide mapping of all private hospitals and NGOs in all states/UTs. 14 3. Collaboration with private sector organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Act in every state/UT. 4. Training and refresher trainings (continuing medical education) of private practitioners in malaria diagnosis, treatment and reporting as per national guidelines. 5. Integration of data on malaria endemicity collected by private hospitals with the national Malaria Information System (MIS). 6. Advocacy with private hospitals and practitioners on a regular basis to ensure adoption of national guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of malaria. 7. Explore scope and establish collaboration with public works department for environmental management, meteorological department for early warning system for outbreaks, agricultural department for safe irrigation and agricultural practices, education sector for promoting awareness on malaria prevention and control, water department for safe water practices and tourism industry for preventing malaria in travellers and cross-border spread of malaria. Cross-border collaboration 1. Screening of populations at international border crossings. 2. Training of security personnel at international border crossings with provision of diagnostic and treatment facilities. 3. Implementation of a mechanism for monthly data collection from international border areas and integration into national MIS. 4. Joint planning and implementation of malaria prevention and control activities with neighbouring countries. 5. Sharing of information and policies for malaria prevention and control with neighbouring countries. 6. Harmonization of policies and synchronization of activities for malaria eliminaiton in bordering countries. 7. Support from multilateral agencies for facilitation of cooperation and information sharing between countries. 15 NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) Initiatives for special population groups 1. Implementation of the Tribal Malaria Action Plan (TMAP) for intensification of malaria prevention and control activities in tribal and ethnic population groups spread across different states/UTs. A total of 96 districts with an API of more than 1 case per 1000 people at risk and a tribal population of more than 25% are being included under this plan for intensified control measures. The following areas will receive special emphasis under TMAP. a. Strengthening of existing health systems and introduction of mobile-based surveillance where routine health services/facilities are not available. b. On the spot, species-specific treatment of all positive cases of malaria with a full course of antimalarials as per NVBDCP guidelines. c. Referral of severe cases to referral centre/district hospital/any other health facility. d. Follow-up of all positive cases to ensure completion of treatment, and integrated vector management for appropriate vector control. e. Prioritization of villages according to degree of risk, for example, a high proportion of Pf cases, type of vectors, forest-based economy or outdoor sleeping habits for appropriate vector control measures (IRS/LLIN or treatment of community-owned bed nets with insecticides). f. Social marketing to increase usage of bed nets and community mobilization by utilizing traditional IEC/BCC tools and practices. 2. Provisions for screening of mobile or migrant workers in each state/UT. 3. Formation of community action groups for sensitization about malaria prevention, intensified control and elimination. These groups may comprise community volunteers such as NGO staff, teachers or local leaders. 4. Training of mobile or migrant workers, military personnel, tribal or other population groups in malaria diagnosis and treatment. 5. Instituting a mechanism for systematically collecting data from these population groups. 6. Consideration of providing treatment to clinically indicative cases or standby treatment for small isolated population groups especially in hard-to-reach areas. 16 IEC/BCC 1. Revision of IEC/BCC strategy with special emphasis on malaria elimination. 2. This strategy will be tailored according to the endemicity of malaria in a region, i.e. different strategies for low and high transmission settings, target groups as well as media habits of different target groups. Innovation 1. Vector control a. Promotion of LLINs using new approaches such as community awareness campaigns, regular surveys to assess utilization of LLINs by community health volunteers. b. Use of alternative methods of community-based vector control such as personal repellents, mosquito proofing of houses, use of vapour-phase insecticides, insecticidal wall linings, as per available evidence on their effectiveness on pilot basis in selected areas, according to indoor/outdoor transmission pattern of malaria. The decision regarding future use of these methods within the programme will be based on the outcome of such pilot studies. c. Integration of malaria control into agricultural practices. d. Experimental hut facilities may also be established at one or two sentinel sites in each state/UT with relevant vector species for testing the efficacy of different vector control interventions. 2. To address malaria in outbreak and other special situations, Standard Operating Procedures for outbreaks and other situations such as in the case of a natural disasters or emergencies, will be formulated and circulated to states/UTs. 3. Avenues for innovative financing to be explored for increasing and sustaining investments in malaria elimination efforts. 4. Innovative ways of service delivery such as integration with Ministry of Tribal Affairs for providing services to tribal populations, collaboration with NGOs, community- based organizations, other ministries and private sector organizations for reaching populations in hard-to-reach and conflict affected areas. 17 NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) Capacity building 1. Preparation of annual training curricula and schedules for health officials at different implementation levels. 2. Review of training status and schedules by programme twice annually. 3. Identification and training of a group of national level trainers in areas such as programme implementation, management, supervision, quality assurance and supply chain management. Research 1. Facilitating research on devising methods to increase efficacy of IRS/LLIN such as through use of enhanced ingredients and new formulations. 2. Surveys by states/UTs on behaviour of mosquito vectors to better inform choices of vector control methods in different settings such as studies of vector feeding and resting behaviour, malaria vector population dynamics. 3. Surveys on community behaviour such as resource use, means of livelihood, patterns of sleeping for better tailored IEC/BCC strategies and prevention, intensified control and elimination of malaria in different population groups. 4. Longitudinal surveys on malaria vector population dynamics, community or district- based mosquito trapping schemes. 5. Research on drug resistance monitoring, therapeutic efficacy studies. 6. Cost-benefit analysis of interventions used for malaria elimination once every five years. 18 4. MEASURING PROGRESS AND IMPACT Implementation of the National Framework for Malaria Elimination in India (2016–2030) will be evaluated at regular intervals for compliance with milestones, targets and objectives to be achieved. Parameters will be established to monitor and evaluate all programme areas, with a particular focus on monitoring the operational aspects of the programme such as: coverage and quality of interventions; measuring operational and epidemiological indicators to ensure that programme activities are yielding desired results in achieving milestones, targets and objectives; documenting progress towards malaria elimination; and advising on revisions in policies and strategies when needed. National and state level independent malaria elimination committees will be set up to oversee progress towards reaching elimination goals. An elimination database that can serve as the state- and national repository for all information related to malaria elimination will also be established. Table 5 summarizes the minimal set of key indicators that will be used to measure the country’s progress towards elimination at national and subnational levels. Details of monitoring indicators by category will be provided in the Operational Manual for Malaria Elimination. 19 NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) Table 5: Key indicators to measure progress towards malaria elimination S. No. IMPACT 1. Number and incidence rate of confirmed malaria cases classified according to sex, age, parasite species and other relevant parameters. 2. Number and incidence of severe malaria cases as well as case fatality rate. 3. Number of malaria cases in pregnancy. 4. Number and type of malaria foci (in areas eligible for elimination). 5. Number of confirmed deaths due to malaria. 6. Number of states/UTs which have eliminated malaria and are currently in the phase of prevention of re-establishment of local transmission. 7. Number of states/UTs which are in elimination phase. 8. Number of states/UTs which are in pre-elimination phase. 9. Number of states/UTs which are in intensified control phase. OUTCOME 10. Proportion of population at risk who slept under an insecticide-treated net/LLIN the previous night. 11. Proportion of population at risk protected by indoor residual spraying within the past 12 months. 12. Proportion of patients with confirmed malaria who received anti-malarial treatment as per national policy. 13. Proportion of cases investigated and classified (in areas eligible for elimination). 14. Proportion of foci investigated and classified (in areas eligible for elimination). 15. Proportion of expected monthly reports received from health facilities at the national and subnational level. 20 5. COST OF IMPLEMENTING THE FRAMEWORK Background Besides being a major health problem, malaria also adversely affects the socioeconomic conditions of communities. Regions affected by malaria are not only poor, but economic growth in these areas has been dismal. Estimates show that growth of per capita income (1965–1990) in countries with a high burden of malaria has been 0.4% per year, whereas the average growth for other countries has been 2.3%, over 5-fold higher. It has also been estimated that a 10% reduction in malaria is associated with 0.3% increase in growth19. In May 2015, the Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016–2030 (GTS) was adopted by the World Health Assembly. The GTS provides a comprehensive framework to guide countries in their efforts to accelerate progress towards malaria elimination. The cost of implementing the GTS was estimated at about US$ 101.8 billion over 15 years. By 2020, global investments of US$ 6.4 billion in malaria control would be required, compared to the current level of US$ 2.5 billion as estimated in 2015. By 2025, the annual requirement is estimated at US$ 7.7 billion, and by 2030, US$ 8.7 billion. A further estimated US$ 673 million is also needed each year to fund malaria research and development. The benefits of investing in malaria control are described in the Action and Investment to Defeat Malaria 2016–2030 (AIM)3 document developed by the Roll Back Malaria Partnership. The AIM document estimates that the GTS implementation will translate into US$ 4 trillion of additional economic output over the 2016–2030 timeframe. The global return on investment is estimated at 40:1. Expected benefits of investing in malaria elimination in India In 2012, it was estimated that the total economic burden of malaria in India was around US$ 1940 million, with 75% from lost earnings and 25% from treatment costs borne by households4. Besides saving lives, eliminating malaria in India would also avert these socioeconomic losses. 21 NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) Estimates for India during the late 90’s, showed that for every Rupee invested in malaria control a direct return of Rupees 19.70 could be expected20. This means that implementing the malaria elimination framework 2016-2030 would bring benefits at least 20 times greater than the total investments made or the total estimated cost of implementing this Framework. It is expected that cost sharing would be possible between different agencies, sectors, states, local governments and centers. The Way Ahead To eliminate malaria from India by 2030 will require additional resources. At present, public spending on malaria control in India represents a small proportion of the country’s overall expenditure on health19. There may be scope to increase the funding to a level that will reduce significantly the burden currently being placed on households by their out-of-pocket payments for the diagnosis and treatment of malaria. In 2016, a costing exercise based on the all the above mentioned factors will be done for estimating the total cost as well as expected benefits of implementing the Framework and achieving elimination in India. 22 6. NEXT STEPS This Framework will serve as a guide for states and UTs for planning malaria elimination. The strategy detailed under this national policy document will be helpful for the states/UTs in rolling out specific interventions for eliminating malaria. After launching of the NFME 2016–2030, a consultation will be held with states and UTs for finalization of the Operational Manual for Malaria Elimination. This manual will provide category-specific details on guidelines and packages of interventions for implementation of the national Framework. Subsequently, a Strategic Action Plan 2016–2020 will be developed for rolling out malaria elimination activities with details of finance, human resources, capacity building, supply and logistics etc. States and UTs will then prepare their annual action plans based on these guidelines and restructure their programmes to achieve stated goals for elimination. One of the key priorities for this Directorate would be to secure and sustain adequate financial resources for implementing the elimination programme through domestic funding. Additionally, innovative financing models, partnerships and integration with other government departments will also be explored. For overall guidance and monitoring of progress towards elimination, a National Malaria Elimination Committee and National Malaria Elimination Technical Working Group will be constituted with representatives from different stakeholders. Similarly, a Malaria Elimination Committee and a Malaria Elimination Taskforce will be constituted at the state as well as district levels. Since monitoring and evaluation will be a key component in all planning activities, the national monitoring and evaluation database will be strengthened. All states and UTs eligible for elimination in the first phase will undergo data validation and situation assessment followed by signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with states/UTs eligible for elimination. Engagement with private sector and other organized government sector organizations such as the Indian Medical Association, medical colleges, railways etc. will be established on priority basis for integration of various aspects of the programme. The first five years after launching the Framework would be crucial as all activities shall be intensified in this time period to gain maximum mileage from advocacy, commitment and ownership and of all stakeholders on malaria elimination. 23 NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) 7. REFERENCES 1. World Health Organization. World malaria report 2015. Geneva: WHO, 2015. 2. World Health Organization. Control and elimination of Plasmodium vivax malaria – a technical brief. Geneva: WHO, 2015. 3. World Health Organization. Action and investment to defeat malaria 2016-2030: for a malaria-free world. Geneva: WHO on behalf of the Roll Back Malaria Partnership Secretariat, 2015. http://www.rollbackmalaria.org/ about/about-rbm/aim-2016-2030 - accessed 8 Feb 2016. 4. Gupta I, Chowdhury S. Economic burden of malaria in India: the need for effective spending. WHO South-East Asia Journal of Public Health. 2014; 3(1):95-102. 5. Kumar A, Valecha N, Jain T, Dash AP. Burden of malaria in India: retrospective and prospective view. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2007 Dec; 77(6 Suppl):69-78. 6. World Health Organization. Global technical strategy for malaria 2016–2030. Geneva: WHO, 2015. 7. Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance. Asia pacific leaders malaria alliance malaria elimination roadmap. Mandaluyong City: Asian Development Bank. http://static1.1.sqspcdn.com/static/f/471029/ 26693819/1448343402727/APLMA_Roadmap_final_EAS_2015.pdf?token=5NWQ96pwwVNZCwH4w 1zsSaJf5wc%3D - accessed 8 Feb 2016. 8. Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. Strategic plan for malaria control in India 2012-2017: a five-year strategic plan. New Delhi. http://nvbdcp.gov.in/Doc/Strategic-Action-Plan-Malaria-2012-17-Co.pdf - accessed 8 Feb 2016. 9. Dash AP, Valecha N, Anvikar AR, Kumar A. Malaria in India: challenges and opportunities. J Biosci. 2008 Nov; 33(4):583-92. 10. Sharma VP. Continuing challenge of malaria in India. Current Science. 2012 Mar; 102(5):678-82. 11. Mendis K, Rietveld A, Warsame M, Bosman A, Greenwood B, Wernsdorfer WH. From malaria control to eradication: the WHO perspective. Trop Med Int Health. 2009 Jul; 14(7):802-9. 12. Dziedzom KS. Mitigating the spread of antimalarial drug resistance and sustaining the achievements in malaria- eliminating countries. Malaria chemotherapy, control & elimination. 2014; 3(1):115. 13. Ashley EA, Dhorda M, Fairhurst RM, Amaratunga C, Lim P, Suon S, et al. Spread of artemisinin resistance in Plasmodium falciparum malaria. N Engl J Med. 2014 Jul 31; 371(5):411-23. 14. World Health Organization. Global report on antimalarial efficacy and drug resistance: 2000-2010. Geneva: WHO, 2010. 15. White NJ. Artemisinin resistance--the clock is ticking. The Lancet. 2010 Dec 18; 376(9758):2051-2. 16. World Health Organization, Regional Office for the Western Pacific. Strategy for malaria elimination in the Greater Mekong subregion (2015-2030). Manila: WHO-WPRO, 2015. 17. Editor. India stands with Asia Pacific nations in drive for malaria-free region. Asian Tribune, 26 November 2015. http://www.asiantribune.com/node/88225 - accessed 8 Feb 2016. 18. Cao J, Sturrock HJ, Cotter C, Zhou S, Zhou H, Liu Y, et al. Communicating and monitoring surveillance and response activities for malaria elimination: China’s “1-3-7” strategy. PLoS Med. 2014 May 13; 11(5):e1001642. 19. Dhariwal AC, Sonal GS, Thakor HG, Narain JP. Socioeconomic dimensions of malaria and India’s policy for its control and elimination. Natl Med J India. 2013 Nov-Dec; 26(6):319-21. 20. Sharma VP. Malaria: cost to India and future trends. Southeast Asian J Trop Med Public Health. 1996 Mar; 27(1):4-14. 24 Annex 1 India Country Profile India is the largest democracy and the second most populous country of the world with a population of more than 1.2 billion. It is located in South-East Asia bordering Sri Lanka (South), Pakistan (North-West), China (North and North-East), Nepal (North), Bhutan (North), Myanmar (East) and Bangladesh (East). It is the seventh-largest country in the world in terms of land area and hosts a variety of geographical and topographical conditions including high mountains, plateaus, wide plains and two groups of islands, namely Lakshadweep in the Arabian Sea and Andaman & Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal. The country has four major seasons namely winter (January–February), summer (March–May), monsoon (June-September) and post- monsoon period (October–December). India operates under a federal or quasi-federal system of governance as per the Constitution of India, which is the country’s supreme legal document. The sex ratio, according to the Census 2011, is 943 females per 1000 males with an overall literacy rate of 73%. The population is extremely diverse with a mix of people from various religions including Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Jains, Zoroastrians, Bahais, and Buddhists among others. The country is divided into 29 states and 7 union territories (UTs), making a total of 36 sub-national units. Each state and UT is further divided into administrative districts and/or towns. These districts are divided into sub-districts, blocks or tehsils which are further sub-divided into villages. As per Census 2011, there are 640 districts, 5924 sub-districts, 7933 towns and 640 930 villages in the country. 8.6% of India’s population is tribal, 11.3% in rural areas and 2.8% in urban areas. The Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) of India is 42 per 1000 live births; Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) is 178 per 100 000 live births; Under Five Mortality Rate (U5MR) is 52 per 1000 live births; Crude Birth Rate (CBR) is 21.6 per 1000 population; and Crude Death Rate (CDR) is 7 per 1000 population as per the Annual Health Report 2013–2014 of the National Health Mission (NHM) for data available till 2012. 25 NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MALARIA ELIMINATION IN INDIA (2016–2030) Annex 2 History of Malaria Control in India In the early 1900s, mal

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