Metro India News | AMARAVATI

On the eve of World AIDS Day, Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Satyakumar Yadav announced that the state now ranks first in India in HIV control, with major improvements recorded across all key indicators.

According to the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO), the Andhra Pradesh State AIDS Control Society (APSACS) achieved 76.96% against the national target of 80% in identifying and treating HIV cases, among the highest in the country. The HIV positivity rate in the general population has dropped sharply from 2.34% in 2015-16 to 0.58% in 2024-25, driven by sustained awareness campaigns, widespread testing, and promotion of safe-sex practices.

AIDS-related mortality has also seen a dramatic 88.72% decline compared to 2010, NACO’s 2024-25 estimates revealed. Among pregnant women, the positivity rate reduced from 0.10% to 0.04%, underscoring the success of prevention of mother-to-child transmission programmes.

New HIV cases fell significantly from 24,957 in 2015-16 to 13,383 in 2024-25. Andhra Pradesh currently has 2,75,528 people living with HIV, next only to Maharashtra. The state provides monthly pensions to 42,008 HIV-positive individuals, with more applications under review.

APSACS Project Director Neelakanta Reddy said Andhra Pradesh is progressing strongly toward achieving the UN AIDS 95-95-95 goals. While national performance stands at 81% in case identification, AP achieved 86%. In viral load suppression, AP recorded 95%, close to the national benchmark of 97%. Treatment coverage reached 87%, compared to the national target of 88%.

The state spends Rs. 35,000 to Rs. 40,000 per patient annually on treatment, with ART medicines supplied free under the Central Sector Scheme. Through 59 ART centres, 2,38,760 patients receive regular medication that has significantly improved their quality of life.

To strengthen prevention among high-risk groups, the state is operating 13 ‘Sampoorna Suraksha Kendras’, which have counselled and tested nearly 35,000 individuals. Additionally, 109 NGOs are supporting targeted interventions across vulnerable communities. Minister Yadav said Andhra Pradesh’s progress reflects its strong commitment to HIV prevention, early detection, and accessible care.