In a determined public health push, Mizoram has announced a bold target to reduce new HIV infections by a staggering 80% before the year 2030. The state continues to grapple with the highest prevalence rate of the virus in India, making this goal both critical and challenging.
A Call for Collective Action on World AIDS Day
The ambitious target was highlighted during the state-level World AIDS Day function in Aizawl. The assembly speaker, Lalbiakzama, addressed the gathering, urging for strong cooperation between the public and non-governmental organisations. He emphasised preventive measures as the cornerstone of the fight, stressing abstinence from unsafe sex and drugs, fidelity in relationships, and the importance of moral discipline among the youth.
This call to action underscores the community-centric approach needed to tackle the epidemic. The event also served as a platform to honour six individuals for their significant contributions to HIV/AIDS care and support in the region. The function concluded on a poignant note with a candlelight memorial service, symbolising solidarity with those living with and affected by HIV.
The Scale of the Challenge: Mizoram's HIV Statistics
The numbers reveal the urgency behind the new target. According to officials, a total of 33,641 people have been diagnosed with HIV in Mizoram since 1990. In a concerning recent trend, 3,117 new cases were detected in just the six-month period between April 2024 and October 2025.
Breaking down the transmission routes, sexual contact accounts for the majority (70%) of infections. This is followed by the use of contaminated syringes, which is responsible for 27% of the transmissions. These figures highlight the areas where awareness and intervention efforts need to be most focused.
MSACS Intensifies Campaigns and Treatment Access
Leading the charge on the ground is the Mizoram State AIDS Control Society (MSACS). The agency has significantly intensified its awareness campaigns, particularly targeting schools and educational institutions. The aim is to educate the younger generation early, fostering a culture of prevention and informed choice.
On the treatment front, Mizoram ensures free access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) for all those diagnosed. The state's healthcare infrastructure currently supports 14 ART centres, providing life-saving medication and care. As of now, 18,231 people are alive and on active treatment through this programme, a testament to the efforts in managing the disease and improving the quality of life for those affected.
The road to an 80% reduction in new infections is steep, but Mizoram's multi-pronged strategy—combining aggressive awareness, accessible treatment, and community mobilisation—marks a crucial step forward in altering the course of the HIV epidemic in the state.
