Indore targets malaria elimination using drone technology

Indore is working towards eliminating malaria by 2030. The state has sorted its cities into four categories based on the number of malaria cases reported. Agar-Malwa is in Category 0, while Indore is in Category 1, reporting 7 cases in 2024. Madhya Pradesh currently holds a Category 1 status, according to Indore district malaria officer Daulat Patel. Four districts in the state – Vidisha, Tikamgarh, Harda, and Agar Malwa – have managed to reach Category 0, with zero malaria cases reported. Despite the low malaria numbers, Indore faced around 550 cases of dengue last year. These details emerged during a state-level meeting focused on reviewing vector-borne diseases like malaria, dengue, and chikungunya in 2024. The meeting aimed to develop strategies to eliminate malaria and control other diseases. Participants emphasized the need for effective malaria management in line with the World Health Organization's targets. Officials discussed various measures for malaria elimination, including enhanced surveillance and treatments. They also highlighted the use of drone technology for controlling diseases like dengue. A documentary showcasing Indore's drone initiative received positive feedback from senior health officials. Authorities noted that other districts could adopt similar strategies, especially using drone technology to locate and remove mosquito breeding sites, contributing to a wider effort to control vector-borne diseases.