In its fight against HIV/AIDS, India has registered some of its strongest gains yet, as the new official data shows a sharp decline of 48.7% in new infections between 2010 and 2024, 81.4% in AIDS-related deaths and 74.6% in mother-to-child transmission.
On the occasion of World AIDS Day, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare Jagat Prakash Nadda in his key note at Vigyan Bhavan highlighted India’s sustained progress under the National AIDS and STD Control Programme.
Nadda also noted that the testing coverage has expanded significantly, from 4.13 crore in 2020–21 to 6.62 crore in 2024–25. The number of people receiving antiretroviral therapy rose from 14.94 lakh to 18.60 lakh, as per official data, while viral load testing has also nearly doubled in the same period.
India’s AIDS progress surpasses global averages
The health minister also noted that India’s progress in eliminating the disease has surpassed global averages, reflecting strong political commitment, sustained domestic investment, evidence-based programme strategies, and consistent community engagement.
Nadda also added that the country has achieved a 35% reduction in new HIV infections (compared to the global 32%) and a 69% decline in HIV-related deaths, far exceeding the global reduction of 37%.
Awareness of HIV status now stands at 85%, against the national target of 95%, treatment coverage has reached 88%, and viral suppression remains exceptionally high at 97%.
These advances place India among global leaders in HIV control. The country has fully transitioned to Dolutegravir-based treatment regimens, considered among the most effective worldwide.
When was World AIDS Day observed
India observes World AIDS Day every year on December 1 and this year’s theme – “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response,” calls for building more resilient, equitable and community-led HIV services amid challenges posed by pandemics, conflict and widening inequalities.
India’s National AIDS and STD Control Programme, launched in the late 1980s and expanded through the creation of the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) in 1992, is widely seen as a global success. Over the years, the programme has shifted towards decentralised planning and deeper engagement with civil society and networks of people living with HIV.
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