Odisha Takes a Step Forward with Youth Engagement in Mass Drug Administration Program

Bhubaneswar – The State of Odisha is making significant strides in its efforts to eliminate Filaria through the engagement of youth during the Mass Drug Administration (MDA) round starting from 10th February 2025 in 47 blocks of 6 districts namely Balangir, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Cuttack, Kandhamal, and Nayagarh. In a groundbreaking initiative, the government, in partnership with Project Concern Internation and National Service Scheme (NSS), has mobilized young people across the state to play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of MDA campaigns aimed at eliminating lymphatic filariasis from the state.
The MDA initiative, which involves the administration of Anti-Filarial Drugs to entire communities, has been recognized as one of the most effective ways to stop the transmission of Filaria parasite. While traditional healthcare workers have been integral part in the process, the active participation of the youth provides a new dimension in community outreach, awareness, and drug distribution efforts.
“Youth are the future of our nation, and by engaging them in this critical health program, we not only ensure its success but also empower the younger generation to become ambassadors of change in their communities,” said Ms. Sarita Patel, Regional Director, NSS, Govt of India, Bhubaneshwar, at the workshop to sensitise district level officialsyouth engagement campaign.
Through partnerships with local schools, colleges, and youth groups, young volunteers are being trained to assist with the administration of Ani-filarial drug, educate their peers and families about the importance of the program.
Involvement of community and specially Youth will help to amplify awareness around the importance of preventive healthcare and the elimination of stigmas often associated with certain diseases. Several youth-led campaigns and educational sessions have already begun in rural and urban areas, with the young volunteers leveraging social media platforms to spread vital information and combat misinformation, said Dr.Neelkantha Mishra, Director Public Health, Department of Health and Family Welfare, Odisha.
The government of Odisha is committed to continuing its efforts to engage youth in mass health campaigns, recognizing their invaluable contribution to public health. Moving forward, further programs and collaborations will continue to be designed to empower young people, ensuring drug consumption by all community members across 47 blocks of 6 districts.
State representatives of World Health Organization (WHO), Global Health Strategies *GHS) and PCI along with district level official of National Service Scheme, Department of Higher Education were also present in this workshop.