Andhra Pradesh stands first in controlling HIV cases, says Health Minister

By Admin

01 Dec, 2025

Andhra Pradesh has set a national benchmark in the fight against HIV, with the State achieving remarkable progress in reducing new infections and improving patient care. According to Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav, the A.P. State AIDS Control Society (APSACS) has achieved 76.96% of the 80% target set by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), placing Andhra Pradesh first in the country in HIV control efforts.

Speaking on the eve of World AIDS Day (December 1), the Minister highlighted the State’s steady progress over the past decade. The HIV-positive rate in Andhra Pradesh has dropped dramatically from 2.34% in 2015–16 to just 0.58% in 2024–25. This decline is attributed to continuous awareness campaigns, widespread community engagement, and the promotion of safe practices such as consistent condom use.

The number of new HIV cases has also seen a major reduction. Andhra Pradesh recorded 24,957 cases in 2015–16, which fell to 21,982 in 2018–19, and further declined to 13,383 by 2024–25. The Minister noted that strong public health initiatives and proactive community outreach were key contributors to this significant drop.

AIDS-related deaths have decreased by an impressive 88.72% compared to 2010, as per NACO’s 2024–25 estimates. The State has also made progress in protecting maternal health HIV prevalence among pregnant women reduced from 0.10% in 2015–16 to 0.04% in 2024–25.

While Maharashtra ranks first in total HIV cases (3,62,392), Andhra Pradesh stands second with 2,75,528 cases. However, the State leads in slowing down new infections and improving long-term care. Currently, 42,008 AIDS patients are receiving pensions as part of the government’s welfare initiatives.

APSACS Project Director Neelakantha Reddy emphasized that Andhra Pradesh is progressing strongly toward the United Nations AIDS target, which focuses on identifying HIV patients, ensuring treatment access, and reducing viral loads. Nationally, India has achieved 81% of the target, while Andhra Pradesh surpassed this with 86% achievement.

The State allocates ₹35,000 to ₹40,000 per HIV patient per year, ensuring uninterrupted treatment. At present, 2,38,760 patients receive monthly medications through a network of 59 Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) centres across Andhra Pradesh. Regular access to ART has significantly improved the quality of life of patients, Mr. Reddy added. He also highlighted the inspiring case of Andhra Pradesh’s first HIV patient, reported in Guntur in 2004, who continues to live a healthy life with consistent treatment.

With sustained efforts, strong leadership, and a people-centric healthcare approach, Andhra Pradesh continues to set an example for the rest of the country in the prevention, control, and management of HIV.