World AIDS Day: India Reports 49% Drop in New HIV Cases, Over 81% Decline in AIDS-Related Deaths

New Delhi — India has recorded remarkable progress in its fight against HIV, with new infections dropping by 48.7 per cent and AIDS-related deaths falling by 81.4 per cent between 2010 and 2024, the government said on Sunday ahead of World AIDS Day 2025. Mother-to-child HIV transmission has also reduced significantly by 74.6 per cent during the same period.

The Health Ministry said India continues to make strong gains under the ongoing phase of the National AIDS Control Programme. HIV testing increased sharply from 4.13 crore in 2020–21 to 6.62 crore in 2024–25. Access to antiretroviral therapy rose from 14.94 lakh to 18.60 lakh people living with HIV (PLHIV), while viral load testing nearly doubled from 8.90 lakh to 15.98 lakh.

According to the ministry, these achievements surpass global averages and reflect India’s sustained investments, evidence-driven approach, and strong community partnerships.

Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda will preside over the national observance of World AIDS Day on Monday at Vigyan Bhawan, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening prevention, treatment, care, and stigma reduction.

Organised by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), the event will bring together senior government officials, global development partners, youth leaders, community advocates, PLHIV, and frontline health workers — symbolising a collective effort towards ending AIDS as a public health threat.

A youth-led flash performance will highlight the importance of awareness and responsible behaviour. This will be followed by the inauguration of a thematic exhibition showcasing digital innovations, programme milestones, and community-led models implemented under the National AIDS and STD Control Programme.

Beneficiary stories and an audio-visual presentation will outline progress made under NACP-V and the priorities ahead. A key highlight will be the launch of a new campaign video series under NACO’s national multimedia initiative, focusing on three themes: Youth and Awareness, Elimination of Vertical Transmission, and Stigma and Discrimination.

With inputs from IANS