Question : ERADICATION OF KALA-AZAR



(a) whether the Government is considering for inclusion of Kala-azar Eradication Programme in the Tenth Five Year Plan; and

(b) if so, the details thereof, alongwith the amount likely to be spent for the implementation of the same?

Answer given by the minister

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (SHRI A. RAJA)

(a) & (b) Elimination of Kala-azar by 2010 is a National Health Policy goal and the programme is included in the Tenth Five Year Plan within the ambit of National Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme. The Programme envisages implementation of following strategy for Kala-azar elimination efforts:-

1. Vector Control through indoor residual insecticides in endemic areas.

2. Treatment of Kala-azar cases.

3. Information Education Communication for community involvement and capacity building.

The Government of India provides anti Kala-azar drugs, insecticides and operational expenses while the State Governments implement the programme through the existing health infrastructure. A tentative provision of Rs.217 crores has been made for Kala-azar elimination out of a total plan outlay of Rs.1370 crores for the National Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme during the Tenth Five Year Plan.