Odisha's Sundargarh district, a major mining region, has recorded a significant number of new HIV infections in the past year, prompting renewed public health efforts. Fresh data reveals that 174 new HIV-positive cases were identified between October 2024 and October 2025.
A Long-Term Health Challenge in a Mining Hub
This recent surge adds to a persistent public health issue in the district. According to the District Integrated Strategy for HIV/AIDS, Sundargarh has reported a cumulative total of 1,540 HIV-positive cases from 2002 to October 2025. This figure represents nearly 2% of the total infections detected across Odisha, which stands at 66,121 cases.
The data indicates a concerning trend, with the district recording 1,366 cases until October 2024, meaning the past year saw a notable increase. Health officials have identified specific blocks within the district as more vulnerable, including Bonai, Balisankara, and Bisra.
Ongoing Screening and Treatment Efforts
In response to the situation, the district administration has ramped up its healthcare initiatives. Annually, approximately 50,000 people are screened for HIV at Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTCs) across Sundargarh. Furthermore, around 7,000 clients with sexually transmitted or reproductive tract infections (STI/RTI) receive syndromic treatment at designated clinics.
Since 2002, a massive 3,75,510 HIV tests have been conducted in the district, including tests for pregnant women. Of the total 1,540 individuals diagnosed, 1,517 are currently receiving Antiretroviral Therapy (ART). The breakdown shows 1,222 men and 318 women have been diagnosed, with 1,207 men and 310 women on ART.
Community Awareness Takes Center Stage
With World AIDS Day observed on December 1, the district's efforts have gained special focus. Dr. B M Swain, the Additional District Public Health Officer for TB and nodal officer for HIV control, emphasized continuous awareness campaigns, particularly targeting youth at the community level.
"To observe World AIDS Day, we organized a mass rally and public meeting," Dr. Swain stated. "Besides, several awareness and screening programmes have been organized for the vulnerable population in Sundargarh district for a week."
Significantly, the testing infrastructure has been expanded. Along with six dedicated ICTCs, all Community Health Centres (CHCs), Urban CHCs, and Sub-Divisional Hospitals (SDH) in the district are now designated for HIV screening. This move aims to improve accessibility for the district's significant migrant population, which is considered a key demographic in the fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS.
