It is concerning that the total number of individuals living with HIV in India reached 1.689 million in 2023-24
OdishaPlus Bureau
Addressing the global objective of eradicating the AIDS pandemic as a public health threat by 2030 necessitates a substantial commitment from India, which is among the most severely impacted nations outside of Africa. It is concerning that the total number of individuals living with HIV in India reached 1.689 million in 2023-24, reflecting a 7.3% increase from the previous year.
In Haryana, the number of patients receiving treatment has more than doubled over the last five years. Additionally, states like Punjab and Himachal Pradesh have experienced a notable rise in HIV cases from 2019-20 to 2023-24, whereas Chandigarh has seen a positive decrease. It is evident that a significant number of individuals infected with HIV are now seeking treatment, and the stigma surrounding AIDS is gradually diminishing.
Laggard Haryana
India has made commendable progress in reducing AIDS-related fatalities by approximately 80% since 2010, largely due to enhanced collaboration between governmental bodies and community organizations that have strengthened the ‘test and treat’ initiative of the National AIDS Control Organization. The provision of free lifelong treatment is a significant advantage. Although there has been a 44% reduction in annual new HIV cases over the past decade, the total figures remain concerning. States like Haryana and others that are lagging must take decisive action.
In India, the increase in the number of individuals living with HIV, which reached 1.689 million in 2023-24, underscores the urgent need for intensified public health strategies. The 7.3% rise from the previous year is a stark reminder that while progress has been made, the battle against HIV/AIDS is far from over. The doubling of patients receiving treatment in Haryana over the last five years is a positive development, indicating that more individuals are accessing the care they need. However, the rising HIV cases in states like Punjab and Himachal Pradesh highlight the disparities in healthcare access and the need for targeted interventions in these regions.
Test and Treat
The decline in AIDS-related fatalities by approximately 80% since 2010 is a testament to the effectiveness of the collaborative efforts between government agencies and community organizations. The ‘test and treat’ initiative spearheaded by the National AIDS Control Organisation has been instrumental in this progress, providing free lifelong treatment to those in need. This initiative not only improves health outcomes but also fosters a sense of hope and empowerment among those living with HIV.
Despite the 44% reduction in annual new HIV cases over the past decade, the total number of infections remains alarming. States that are lagging, such as Haryana, must prioritize HIV prevention and treatment strategies. This includes increasing funding for public health campaigns, expanding access to testing and treatment, and ensuring that healthcare providers are trained to deliver compassionate and non-discriminatory care.
Raising Awareness
Raising awareness about HIV/AIDS is crucial for the effectiveness of preventive strategies. Continuous interventions are essential to safeguard vulnerable populations, including sex workers, migrants, drug users, long-distance drivers, and transgender individuals. Community-led organizations are ideally positioned to engage with at-risk groups.
Adequate resources should be made available to them, and bureaucratic obstacles must not hinder their initiatives. World AIDS Day, celebrated on December 1, emphasizes the vital connection between fighting this pandemic and achieving universal health coverage, as well as the right to health. Ensuring equitable access to healthcare can significantly alleviate India’s HIV burden.
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