On February 10, Union Health Minister JP Nadda announced the government's commitment to making India filaria-free by 2027. He appealed for active community participation to achieve this goal. Nadda was addressing the state health ministers and senior officials of 13 filariasis-affected states through a video conference during the launch of the annual nationwide Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign for lymphatic filariasis (LF) elimination.

Under this campaign, medicines will be distributed door-to-door in 111 affected districts across 13 states to prevent filariasis. Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as 'elephantiasis,' is a disease spread by mosquitoes that causes swelling in a person's limbs and other parts of the body.

Noting that lymphatic filariasis disables individuals and significantly impacts their quality of life, Nadda called for the implementation of a five-pronged strategy to eliminate the disease well ahead of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

He said, "From February 10, these medicines will be provided free of cost to more than 175 million people in the affected districts. It is crucial for people living in these areas to take these medicines to protect themselves and their families from this debilitating disease."

Emphasizing the importance of achieving high coverage, he stated, "Endemic districts must ensure that over 90% of the eligible population takes filariasis medicines. Our collective commitment and determination will help change lives and ensure a filaria-free future."

Nadda urged states and union territories to ensure swift diagnosis of affected individuals and monitor the campaign at the state level, calling for the active participation of political and administrative leadership at the district/state level.

The minister emphasized a whole-government approach, saying that other ministries and departments could also be included in campaign activities for coordination. He concluded, "India is unwavering in its commitment to eliminate lymphatic filariasis and will continue to remain steadfast in this goal. Our resolve is to achieve this target by 2027."