- Union Minister Nadda launches MDA-2026
Bhopal, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda has officially launched the Mass Drug Administration (MDA) 2026 campaign, marking a decisive step toward India’s goal of eliminating Lymphatic Filariasis (Elephantiasis) by 2027. The virtual launch covers 124 districts across 12 states, including a focused push in Madhya Pradesh.
= Commitment to eradication
Addressing health ministers and officials, Minister Nadda emphasized that drug distribution must translate into actual consumption.
“It is not enough to deliver the medicine; we must ensure every eligible citizen swallows the full dose,” he stated, calling for a coordinated effort between political and local leadership.
= Madhya Pradesh’s 15-day strategy
Deputy CM Rajendra Shukla confirmed that the campaign in MP will target 12 blocks across eight districts, including Chhatarpur, Panna, and Bhind. The health department has structured a rigorous 15-day micro-plan:
Booth Days: First 4 days for centralized distribution.
Door-to-Door: Next 7 days for home visits.
Mop-up Phase: Final 4 days to cover any missed citizens.
= Symptoms and prevention
Filariasis is a mosquito-borne disease causing severe swelling of limbs (Elephantiasis). To break the transmission cycle, all citizens above age two—excluding pregnant women and the critically ill—must take the prescribed doses of DEC and Albendazole annually.
