National Deworming Programme

Q: What are the benefits of National Deworming Programme?

Administration of Albendazole tablets to reduce worm burden. Improvement in nutritional status and reduction in anemia. Enhanced cognitive development and improved school attendance

Q: Which ministry manages National Deworming Programme?

National Deworming Programme is managed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Ministry of Health and Family WelfareactiveHealthLaunched: 2015-02-10

About the Scheme

A nationwide mass drug administration initiative to combat soil-transmitted helminths (STH) in children aged 1-19 by administering Albendazole tablets through schools and Anganwadi centers.

Target Beneficiaries: children aged 1‑19 years

Key Features

Mass Drug Administration (MDA) conducted twice a year (February and August)
Distribution through anganwadis, schools, and colleges
Specific dosage guidelines for different age groups (e.g., half tablet for 1-2 years, full tablet for older)
Includes a mop-up round for beneficiaries who missed the primary deworming day

Benefits

Administration of Albendazole tablets to reduce worm burden
Improvement in nutritional status and reduction in anemia
Enhanced cognitive development and improved school attendance

Exam Relevance

GS Paper: GS2

Prelims Relevance5%

Mains Relevance4%

About the Scheme

✦Key Features

★Benefits

Exam Relevance

Key Features

Benefits