Maharashtra offers Rs 500 to tribal families for malaria testing

The Maharashtra government has launched a cash-incentive scheme in Gadchiroli, the state's worst-affected rural district for malaria, to encourage tribal communities to get tested and treated. A tribal family will receive Rs 500 if a family member with fever approaches the health system and tests positive for malaria. A traditional healer, or vaidu, who refers a patient who subsequently tests positive will get Rs 200.

Gadchiroli, about 70% of which is dense forest, contributes 33% of Maharashtra's malaria cases despite having only 1% of the state's population. Between January 1 and August 15 this year, 3,004 malaria cases were reported from the district, with 1,680 in July alone. Dr Abhay Bang, head of the state-appointed Malaria Control Task Force, said this is the first time such an incentive has been provided for malaria in India and is modelled on the community-involvement strategy used to fight smallpox in the 1970s.

The scheme, detailed in a June 24 order from the Gadchiroli Zilla Parishad health department, also includes awareness campaigns, weekly IEC activities in tribal schools, and health booths at weekly bazaars. District Health Officer Dr Pratap Shinde said the focus is on driving behavioural change among tribals so they seek early treatment.