India Achieves Significant Milestones in HIV Reduction, Surpassing Global Rates: Health Ministry
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New Delhi, Nov 30 (NationPress) Although more than 2.5 million people are currently living with HIV in India, the nation has achieved significant advancements and has exceeded the global reduction rate, as stated by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday, in anticipation of World AIDS Day.
World AIDS Day has been commemorated every year on December 1 since 1988, aiming to promote awareness about HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), as well as to combat the stigma surrounding the illness.
As per the India HIV Estimations 2023 report, more than 2.5 million individuals are living with HIV in India.
Nonetheless, the nation has observed a remarkable 44 percent reduction since 2010, with adult HIV prevalence standing at 0.2 percent and new annual HIV infections estimated at 66,400, according to the ministry.
“India has outperformed the global reduction rate of 39 percent, showcasing the effectiveness of ongoing interventions. The provision of free, high-quality lifelong treatment for over 1.6 million individuals living with HIV (PLHIV) through 725 ART (Antiretroviral Therapy) centers (as of June 2023) and 12.3 lakh viral load tests conducted between 2022–2023 reflects India’s dedication to providing care for affected populations,” the ministry stated.
“World AIDS Day 2024 serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to eliminate HIV/AIDS. Through the NACP Phase-V and its rights-based approach, India has made substantial progress in prevention, treatment, and care,” it further added. The National AIDS and STD Control Programme (NACP) was initiated in 1992 to combat the disease in the nation.
The Global AIDS Update 2023, published by The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), also recognized the significant achievements made by India in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
It commended India for its strong legal framework and financial investments, which have contributed to a decrease in new HIV cases in the country.
These initiatives have also advanced the nation’s goal of eradicating AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, as noted by the report, while also acknowledging India for strengthening laws to safeguard the rights of vulnerable populations.
This year’s theme, “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!”, embodies the shared mission to promote inclusivity, uphold human rights, and guarantee equitable access to healthcare.
The ministry emphasized the significance of collaboration, the necessity to tackle structural challenges, and the importance of scaling successful interventions to lead the global campaign against HIV/AIDS.
