Haryana screened approximately 12.4 lakh (1.24 million) individuals for HIV during the financial year 2025–26, identifying 5,877 people as HIV positive, according to state health officials. The large-scale screening initiative is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen early detection, treatment access, and prevention strategies.
The data was shared by Dr. Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, Haryana, who outlined the state’s public health measures to control HIV and other communicable diseases.
According to officials, the HIV screening drive covered various high-risk and general population groups through:
Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTCs)
Government hospitals
Community-based testing initiatives
Antenatal screening programmes
Individuals who tested positive were linked to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) centres for free treatment and follow-up care under the National AIDS Control Programme.
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) involves a combination of medicines that suppress the HIV virus, reduce viral load, and help individuals maintain immune function. While HIV currently has no cure, consistent ART can significantly improve life expectancy and reduce transmission risk.
The state has emphasized early diagnosis as a key component in reducing complications and preventing further spread.
Dr. Sumita Misra stated that Haryana has strengthened awareness campaigns, particularly among high-risk populations. Preventive strategies include:
Targeted intervention programmes
Condom distribution initiatives
Counseling and behavioural awareness drives
Prevention of parent-to-child transmission (PPTCT) services
The screening of 12.4 lakh individuals reflects expanded outreach efforts and improved testing infrastructure.
In addition to HIV control, Haryana has reported progress in tuberculosis (TB) elimination efforts. According to Dr. Misra, the state achieved:
98% TB case notification rate
90% treatment success rate
Case notification refers to the reporting of diagnosed TB cases to public health authorities, which is essential for monitoring disease trends and ensuring treatment compliance.
The state has aligned its TB elimination efforts with India’s national target of eliminating tuberculosis ahead of the global Sustainable Development Goals timeline.
HIV attacks CD4 immune cells, weakening the body’s defense against infections. Without treatment, the condition can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). Early detection allows timely initiation of ART, significantly reducing complications.
Similarly, tuberculosis remains one of the leading opportunistic infections among people living with HIV. Integrated screening ensures better clinical outcomes.
Haryana screened 12.4 lakh individuals for HIV in FY26, identifying 5,877 positive cases and linking them to treatment services. Alongside expanded HIV testing, the state has reported a 98% TB case notification rate and 90% treatment success rate, reflecting strengthened public health surveillance and treatment systems.
State health authorities continue to emphasize early diagnosis, integrated disease management, and expanded treatment access.
(Rh)
