Haryana has intensified its fight against HIV/AIDS by screening 12,40,205 people between April 2025 and January 2026. Of these, 5,877 individuals tested positive, according to an official statement released on Thursday.
Government Expands Testing and Counselling Services
Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, stated that the state has significantly strengthened its HIV response this financial year. To improve early detection and access to care, Haryana currently operates 104 Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTCs), including a mobile unit in Faridabad.
All centres provide free and confidential testing services. Misra emphasised that the government prioritises stigma-free access to testing and treatment for every section of society.
Focus on Preventing Mother-to-Child Transmission
Importantly, the state has placed strong emphasis on preventing vertical transmission. During the reporting period, health authorities tested 5,65,830 pregnant women for HIV. Of these, 613 tested positive and were promptly linked to treatment to reduce the risk of transmission to their newborns.
Strengthening ART Infrastructure Across Districts
In parallel, Haryana has expanded its anti-retroviral therapy (ART) network. The state now operates 24 ART centres across districts such as Rohtak, Gurugram, Faridabad, Karnal, Hisar, Ambala and Mewat. Notably, authorities recently established 13 of these centres within medical colleges to widen access to specialised care.
Additionally, five Facility Integrated ART (FI-ART) centres and four Link ART centres are operational. At present, 40,851 patients across the state are receiving ART treatment.
Financial Assistance for People Living with HIV
To further support affected individuals, the state government launched a monthly financial assistance scheme in December 2021. Under this initiative, People Living with HIV (PLHIV) receive ₹2,250 per month. So far, the government has disbursed ₹54.3 crore under the scheme, reinforcing its commitment to sustained care and social support.
Addressing Sexually Transmitted Infections and High-Risk Groups
As reported by NDTV, beyond HIV treatment, Haryana is actively managing sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The state runs 31 designated clinics that offer free counselling, syphilis testing, and treatment services.
Moreover, 42 targeted intervention projects—implemented through Red Cross Societies and NGOs—engage high-risk groups, including female sex workers, men who have sex with men, intravenous drug users, truckers, and migrant labourers. These initiatives aim to improve awareness, prevention, and early diagnosis within vulnerable communities.
Expanding Opioid Substitution Therapy and Community Outreach
Recognising the link between substance use and HIV transmission, the state operates 12 opioid substitution therapy (OST) centres along with three satellite units. Currently, 9,014 patients are registered under the programme, and approximately 4,570 receive regular treatment.
Furthermore, Haryana has involved multiple government departments in mainstreaming initiatives to sensitise communities and reduce stigma. Through coordinated efforts, the state continues to strengthen its comprehensive HIV prevention and treatment framework.