The National Filaria Control Programme was launched:

Appeared in: DSSSB 13 August 2024

Explanation

The National Filaria Control Programme (NFCP) was launched in 1955.
This program was initiated during India's First Five-Year Plan.
Its main objective was to control lymphatic filariasis through vector control (anti-larval measures) and case management.
The program initially targeted urban areas where the disease was highly endemic.

Option A: By 1965, the NFCP had already been operational for a decade. This year is significant for the introduction of the Lippes Loop in the family planning program.
Option B: 1975 is a landmark year for the launch of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, not the NFCP.
Option C: 1945 was before India's independence. Major national health programs were formulated and launched in the post-independence era, particularly after the establishment of the Planning Commission.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain National Health Programs in India as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
For community health nurses, knowing the history and objectives of national health programs is crucial for effective implementation, community education, and participation in disease surveillance and control activities.
The evolution of the NFCP from control to elimination (through Mass Drug Administration) highlights the shift in public health strategy. Nurses play a key role in ensuring high compliance during MDA rounds to interrupt transmission.
What if the question was about the elimination of filariasis? The strategy changed from simple control to elimination, with the National Health Policy (2002) setting a goal for elimination. The current strategy involves annual Mass Drug Administration (MDA) with DEC and Albendazole.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of important dates in Indian public health history.
First, identify the key phrase in the question: 'National Filaria Control Programme'.
Next, recall the timeline of major health programs launched after India's independence.
Associate the program with the Five-Year Plans. The NFCP was launched during the First Five-Year Plan (1951-1956).
Eliminate incorrect options. 1945 is pre-independence. 1975 is famous for ICDS. This leaves 1955 and 1965. Recalling that filaria control was an early initiative helps pinpoint 1955.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart C (pp 404-604 of 604) p. 95-97

E6 Comprehensive Textbook of Community Health NursingShyamala D part 1 (pp 26-389 of 389) p. 52-54

Practise the full DSSSB 13 August 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.