Lumami, Feb 12 (WE THE NAGAS): An awareness programme on the Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign for the elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) was held on February 10, 2026 at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Lumami. The programme was organized under the Government of India’s MDA initiative and coordinated by Nagaland University as part of its community outreach efforts.
Dr. Lobeno Mozhui, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, Nagaland University, chaired the programme and highlighted that lymphatic filariasis is one of the leading causes of long-term disability worldwide. Though not fatal, the disease severely impacts quality of life and imposes social and economic burdens. She noted that India accounts for nearly 40% of the global LF burden, with around 740 million people at risk across 348 districts in 20 endemic States and Union Territories. She emphasized the government’s Enhanced Strategy for LF Elimination by 2027, including biannual MDA drives on February 10 and August 10, and urged community participation for successful eradication.
Ms. Kiran Dangi, Principal of JNV Lumami, welcomed the gathering and encouraged students to become health ambassadors within their communities. Prof. Ranjit Kumar, Head, Department of Zoology, delivered an expert lecture explaining LF transmission, symptoms, and preventive measures, stressing the importance of MDA in breaking the disease cycle.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Peter Ki, PRO, Nagaland University. A free medical camp was also conducted by the University Health Centre, benefiting students and staff. The event ended with a collective call to actively support the MDA campaign and achieve LF elimination by 2027.