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India Reaffirms Commitment to Ending AIDS Epidemic on World AIDS Day

[City, Date] – As the world observes World AIDS Day on December 1st, India is reaffirming its commitment to combating HIV/AIDS, showcasing a globally recognized success story in its AIDS Control Programme. Under the theme “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response,” India’s efforts are spearheaded by the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO), under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, through nationwide awareness campaigns and community outreach.

India’s journey began in 1985 with a focus on identifying cases and ensuring safe blood transfusions. The launch of the National AIDS and STD Control Programme (NACP) and NACO in 1992 marked a turning point, decentralizing the response and increasing NGO involvement.

The National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) has evolved through five phases, culminating in NACP-V, a Central Sector Scheme with an outlay of Rs. 15,471.94 crore. This phase supports the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 3.3, aiming to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic as a public health threat by 2030.

NACO leads national awareness efforts through multimedia campaigns, using mass media, digital platforms, and traditional methods like hoardings and folk performances to reach diverse audiences. Thematic campaigns combat stigma and promote inclusion of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in workplaces, healthcare settings, and communities.

India’s progress, marked by a decline in AIDS cases exceeding the global average, is attributed to broadened testing, enhanced access to antiretroviral therapy, focused outreach to high-risk groups, and anti-stigma initiatives. The country’s success highlights a shift from crisis management to sustainable, rights-focused policies and community empowerment.

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