Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda today highlighted that India recorded a 32 percent decline in new HIV infections and a 69 percent reduction in AIDS-related deaths. Addressing the commemoration of World AIDS Day in New Delhi, Mr Nadda further stated that awareness about HIV status has reached 85 percent and treatment coverage is now at 88 percent.

 

He said that India’s HIV response has strengthened over the years through improved diagnostics, affordable medicines and expanded ART centers across the country. He added that today, every diagnosed individual receives immediate lifelong treatment under the Test and Treat policy, which has significantly reduced mortality. He also mentioned that the HIV/AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act 2017 provides a legally safe, discrimination-free environment and strengthens the rights and dignity of people living with HIV. The Health Minister further emphasized the need to sensitize the spread of HIV through drugs.

 

As part of the observance, Mr. Nadda launched a national multimedia campaign series focusing on youth awareness, elimination of vertical transmission of HIV and syphilis, and ending stigma and discrimination. He also released major programme documents, including the seventh edition of Sankalak, India HIV Estimates 2025, the Research Compendium, and an IT-enabled virtual platform titled Breakfree. He also interacted with active field workers engaged in HIV prevention.