Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey today said that number of Kala Azar patients are on the constant decline and so the disease could completely eliminate from the state by 2020.

Replying to short notice question of RJD MLC Radhacharan Sah in the state legislative council, Mr Pandey said as per reports received from Kala Azar affected districts during the last three years, number of Kala Azar patients was declining continuously. On the basis of these reports, it could be said that the elimination of Kala Azar could be possible till 2020.

Mr Pandey said that out of total 458 primary health centres in 33 districts of the state affected by Kala Azar in 2018, only 35 primary health centres were under highly affected category. He said more than one person per 10,000 people was found suffering from Kala Azar. In 2017, 47 primary health health centres were listed in the highly affected category.