Article Today, Hyderabad:
India has recorded a sustained decline in HIV infections over the past 15 years, marking a significant public health achievement. Data released by the Union Health Ministry on the occasion of World AIDS Day showed that new HIV cases fell by 48.7 per cent between 2010 and 2024. During the same period, AIDS-related deaths dropped by 81.4 per cent. Officials said the results reflect the impact of long-term planning and consistent public health interventions.
Protection for Mothers and Children:
Preventing HIV transmission from pregnant women to newborns remains a critical focus area. The latest data indicated a 74.6 per cent reduction in mother-to-child transmission. Health authorities said early diagnosis and timely treatment for expectant mothers have helped protect a large number of infants from acquiring the virus at birth.
Expanded Testing Network:
Early detection has been strengthened through a rapid expansion of HIV testing services. In 2020–21, about 4.13 crore people were tested across the country. This number increased to 6.62 crore within five years. Medical experts said wider testing has enabled early initiation of treatment and reduced the risk of community transmission.
Improved Access to Treatment:
Free and universal access to anti-retroviral therapy has improved the quality of life of people living with HIV. The number of patients receiving treatment rose from 14.94 lakh in 2020–21 to 18.60 lakh at present. Meanwhile, viral load testing, which helps monitor treatment effectiveness, increased from 8.90 lakh to 15.98 lakh. Doctors said these advances allow timely adjustments in therapy and better long-term outcomes.
Road to 2030:
Officials attributed the progress to coordinated efforts by the Centre, State governments, voluntary organisations, healthcare workers, and community groups. Telangana Health Minister Damodar Raja Narasimha and Telangana State AIDS Control Society Director Dr. V. Venkateshwar Reddy said the State is aligned with the national objective of eliminating HIV by 2030. They expressed confidence that sustained prevention, testing, and treatment strategies can make the goal achievable.
