MDA Coordinators

Position:

MDA Coordinators

Grade/Level

0

Project/Unit

To Support LF+VL Elimination in Bihar/ Jharkhand

Reports to:

PL/SPL - Communicable Disease

Location:

Any Block of Bihar and Jharkhand

Duration

10^th January to 31^st March 2026

Project Background:

Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) and Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) are serious public health problems on the Indian subcontinent, causing significant morbidity and mortality. The Government of India (GOI) has launched elimination initiatives for both diseases with the goal of reducing annual incidence to below threshold levels at the sub-district (block) level.

Piramal Foundation, with generous support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), provides strategic leadership and on-ground implementation for the Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) and Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) elimination programs in Bihar and Jharkhand. Complementing this, Mubadala’s funding strengthens efforts toward LF elimination across both states. These initiatives are carried out in close collaboration with the respective State Government departments and the National Vector Borne Disease Control Program (NVBDCP).

This project contributes to the Government's comprehensive initiative to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) and Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) from Bihar and Jharkhand.

Job Summary

The MDA Coordinator is a time-bound, field-based position engaged for approximately 90 days to support block-level Mass Drug Administration activities for LF elimination. The role focuses on microplanning, on-ground supervision, data collection and reporting, and community mobilization within the assigned block, with a strong emphasis on transparency, data accuracy, and achievement of full drug consumption and coverage targets.

Key Responsibilities

A. Program Implementation (Block Level)

• Support block-level planning and implementation of all MDA activities with a strong focus on achieving high drug consumption and coverage rates
• Conduct intensive field visits during MDA and mopping-up days to monitor booth and house-to-house activities, provide on-the-spot technical and motivational support to field staff, and address implementation challenges in real time
• Ensure that MDA implementation adheres to national guidelines and quality standards

B. Microplanning and Operational Support

• Facilitate the preparation and periodic review of block-level microplans, supervision plans, Rapid Response Team (RRT) plans, and action plans
• Provide written feedback on microplans and operational plans to ensure continuous improvement and mid-course correction
• Support planning and execution of MDA booths at all schools and health facilities in accordance with program guidelines
• Ensure coordination between block and village-level teams for seamless MDA operations

C. Data Management & Reporting

• Ensure timely and accurate daily data collection using Survey CTO or other approved digital tools, including household-level, booth-level, and mopping-up phase data
• Facilitate daily reporting of MDA coverage, drug consumption, and other key indicators to IHIP (Integrated Health Information Platform), SukRtya, or other government platforms
• Coordinate closely with block data entry teams to ensure data quality, accuracy, and on-time submission
• Help maintain and update line lists for lymphedema and hydrocele cases identified during MDA and community interactions
• Submit daily online reports and periodic summaries as per established reporting formats and timelines

D. Coordination & Stakeholder Engagement

• Liaise with block-level officials (Medical Officer In-Charge [MOIC], Block Development Officer [BDO], Vector Borne Disease Surveillance [VBDS], Block Public Relations Officer [BPRO], Block Education Officer [BEO]) for smooth execution of MDA operations and immediate troubleshooting
• Facilitate block coordination committee meetings and daily evening briefings as per program guidelines, sharing field findings, gaps, and corrective actions
• Work with Panchayat Raj Institutions and block officials to facilitate community participation and address implementation barriers

E. Capacity Building & Community Mobilization

• Support training and on-the-job mentoring of Frontline Workers (ANM, ASHA, ASHA Facilitators, CHO, VBDS, Malaria Inspectors) on MDA protocols, interpersonal communication, data collection, and reporting procedures 
• Orient Panchayat members, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), youth groups, students, teachers, and local influencers on LF/MDA awareness messages and their critical role in improving coverage and promoting drug consumption
• Support the formation and leadership of Mission MDA squads under Panchayat leadership to mobilize and reach households
• Facilitate Gram Sabhas (village assemblies), school awareness activities, youth engagement programs, and community-led mobilization initiatives
• Address rumors, fears, and hesitations through community engagement, counselling, and supportive communication

F. Communication, Rumor Management, and IEC

• Support local communication activities to address myths, fears, stigma, and vaccine refusals related to MDA drugs
• Escalate emerging rumors or community resistance to the Program Officer and block team for prompt action and resolution
• Facilitate MDA campaign inaugurations at block, Panchayat, and school levels with key dignitaries (Block Development Officer, MOIC, teachers, Mukhiya, Sarpanch) to enhance visibility and community ownership
• Support the use of local media and social networks to promote MDA messages and encourage participation

G. Logistics and Documentation

• Support block teams to ensure consistent availability of essential logistics (drugs, registers, IEC materials, data collection forms, and equipment)
• Flag potential shortages of supplies early to enable timely procurement and prevent disruptions
• Document daily progress, challenges, good practices, and success stories; contribute to short case stories and end-of-MDA summaries
• Maintain accurate records of all field activities, supervision findings, and community feedback

H. Reporting & Accountability

• Functionally report to the Program Officer - Communicable Disease, with administrative alignment to the Program Lead - Communicable Disease
• Adhere strictly to daily reporting timelines and quality standards; submit all required reports on schedule
• Maintain high standards of transparency, honesty, and data accuracy
• Full availability and active engagement throughout the entire 90-day engagement period is mandatory

Qualification & Experience

Essential

• Minimum 10+2 (Higher Secondary School Certificate) pass or equivalent
• Resident of the same block where deployed, with good knowledge of local geography, culture, and communities
• Must own or have regular access to a two-wheeler (motorcycle or scooter) in good working condition
• Must hold a valid driving license (two-wheeler class) and demonstrate safe driving practices

Preferred

• Prior experience supporting public health programs, LF/VL elimination initiatives, disease surveillance, or community mobilization (e.g., as an MMS member, key informant, health volunteer, SHG or youth leader)
• Ability to work independently in field settings and manage daily travel within the block
• Familiarity with government health systems and block-level administration

Skills & Competencies

Integrity & Accountability: High level of personal integrity, discipline, and commitment to data transparency, honesty, and ethical conduct

Field Presence & Mobility: Willingness and ability to travel extensively within the block, including to remote and difficult-to-reach villages

Digital Proficiency: Proficiency in using smartphones, mobile applications, and online data collection tools (e.g., Survey CTO, IHIP)

Communication: Good interpersonal and communication skills to engage effectively with community members, Panchayat leaders, teachers, frontline workers, and block officials

Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and respect diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, and working styles

Local Knowledge: Excellent working knowledge of Hindi; knowledge of local dialects and cultural sensitivities is an added advantage

Attention to Detail: Strict adherence to program timelines, reporting protocols, and program guidelines; high attention to data quality and accuracy

Problem-Solving: Ability to identify implementation challenges and propose context-appropriate solutions with guidance from the Program Officer

Learning Orientation: Willingness to learn, improve, and adopt evidence-based practices for better program outcomes

Employment Terms

Duration: 90 days (approximately 10^th January to 31 March 2026)

Nature of Engagement: Fixed-term contractual position

Travel: Frequent daily travel within the block is mandatory; candidate must provide own two-wheeler

Reporting: Daily and weekly reporting requirements; full availability expected during operational periods

Language: Fluent communication in Hindi required; knowledge of local languages is an advantage

Expectations and Performance Indicators

The MDA Coordinator's performance will be evaluated based on:

• Daily data submission accuracy and timeliness
• MDA coverage rates and drug consumption targets achieved in the assigned block
• Quality of field supervision and supportive feedback to frontline workers
• Effectiveness of community mobilization and community engagement
• Adherence to program protocols and reporting standards
• Interpersonal effectiveness with government staff, community leaders, and communities
• Documentation and case story development