Meghalaya Confronts High HIV Prevalence with Major Funding Initiative
In a concerning revelation, Meghalaya has been identified as having one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in India. State Health and Family Welfare Minister Wailadmiki Shylla informed the assembly on Wednesday that as of January, 10,293 infected individuals are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). "It is very unfortunate, but Meghalaya is having the highest cases in India," Shylla stated during question hour, responding to queries about the state's national position regarding HIV/AIDS.
Government Approves Rs 25-Crore Mission-Mode Programme
To combat this alarming rise, the government has approved a Rs 25-crore, five-year mission-mode programme aimed at containing the spread of HIV/AIDS. Additionally, the National AIDS Control Organisation has sanctioned Rs 17.8 crore to the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society for the 2025-26 financial year. Shylla emphasized that this targeted plan will significantly expand testing infrastructure, manpower, outreach efforts, and treatment services across the state.
Deaths and District-Wise Impact Over the Past Decade
Over the past decade, 749 deaths linked to HIV/AIDS have been reported in Meghalaya. East Khasi Hills district recorded the highest toll with 435 deaths, followed by West Jaintia Hills (123), East Jaintia Hills (90), Ri Bhoi (51), and Eastern West Khasi Hills (16). Other districts reported smaller numbers, including nine deaths in West Garo Hills, eight in West Khasi Hills, seven in South West Khasi Hills, three in South Garo Hills, two in South West Garo Hills, and one in North Garo Hills. Shylla clarified, "All the reported deaths were due to opportunistic infections (OIs) and none were directly caused by HIV/AIDS."
Challenges in Confidentiality and Stigma
Shylla highlighted that confidentiality under the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act remains a major challenge, as testing cannot be conducted without consent and treatment cannot be forced. He noted that stigma and fear continue to deter many individuals from seeking testing and treatment, complicating efforts to control the epidemic.
Intensified Awareness and Outreach Efforts
Despite these constraints, the health department has intensified awareness and outreach programmes to improve early detection and treatment uptake. Meghalaya currently operates 392 standalone integrated counselling and testing centres (ICTCs) across districts, along with four mobile ICTCs that operate statewide, enhancing accessibility for remote communities.
The state's proactive measures, including the new funding and expanded services, aim to address the high prevalence rates and reduce the impact of HIV/AIDS on its population.
