Port Blair, April 26: World Malaria Day was observed on April 25 throughout the Islands. As part of the observance, a function was held in the Conference Hall of GSSS Haddo, Port Blair in coordination with the Directorate of Health Services and UT Health Mission on the theme ‘Accelerating the fight against Malaria for a more equitable world’. The Director of Health Services, Dr. Suja Antony was the chief guest while Principal GSSS Haddo, Shri D. P. Chourasia was the guest of honour.

Speaking on the occasion, the Director of Health Services highlighted the importance of World Malaria Day. Dr. B Ajit Kumar, Joint Secretary (NVBDCP)/ Deputy Director (Malaria), DHS spoke on the importance of early detection, complete treatment and vector control for elimination of malaria. He also stressed on the importance of use of mosquito bed net even during day time especially for children aged less than 5 years and pregnant mothers to prevent mosquito bite. 

Dr. S. Sunil Kumar, CMO (NFSG)/Deputy Director (Health Education emphasised on the role of children to disseminate the knowledge of malaria prevention and mosquito control among the society. Zero malaria can be achieved by active community participation in the Malaria Control Programme. He also thanked community for participation in reducing the incidence of malaria in A&N Islands.

Earlier, the District Malaria Officer, NVBDCP Unit, Shri Madhu Prakash welcomed the gathering. The programme concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by Shri Polycarb, PGT, GSSS Haddo, Port Blair.