Most Chin people are suffering from Malaria in the Indo-Myanmar border area of Paletwa Township, Southern Chin State, western Burma.

"Blood tests of around 400 people from four villages have been carried out and the result shows that 130 persons have malaria. Now over 70 persons are suffering from malaria in Para, Ramri, Shao and Rakan villages of Paletwa township," said a staff of Chin Backpack Medical Team (CBMT).

The estimated population of the four villages is 2000 but of these only 400 have had their blood tested. Around 130 persons have been infected and 70 persons are suffering from the disease. A four month old baby died on May 2009 in Ramri village.

The people in these areas are threatened not only by malaria but also leprosy, anemia, typhoid and stomach problems. Even then the government authorities have never provided medical treatment or other health care and education among other needs.

"Except in towns there is no health service. There are no medicines in our village. We have to go to Paletwa town for medical check up if we are ill. We cannot afford treatment. Sometimes we take some medicines from our school teachers and Church pastors," a local said.

Although the Chin Backpack Medical Team (CBMT) and the youth health group in Mizoram state take care of the remote villagers, there is no further medical assistance from the government.

Similarly, other areas or villages of Chin State are suffering from disease like malaria, anemia and stomach problems as there is no sub-centre, medical shop and health awareness in remote areas.