Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu voiced his profound concern over the state’s rising HIV-positive case count, emphasizing the necessity for swift action to stop the virus’s spread, fight misinformation, and eradicate social exclusion. The Arunachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society (APSACS) held its third State Council on AIDS (SCA) meeting during the day, which was headed by the chief minister. Senior officers, advisors, cabinet colleagues, non-governmental organizations, and community-based organizations were present.
According to officials, talks began on the concerning increase in HIV cases and the necessity of integrated policies that combine HIV control with substance usage prevention. Later, Khandu presided over the Arunachal Pradesh Psychoactive Substances Control Authority’s (APPSCA) second meeting, which addressed the state’s rising drug addiction problem. According to him, talks also focused on bolstering counseling and rehabilitation centers, stepping up the supply chain crackdown, and creating a community-led movement for an Arunachal drug-free future.
State Health Minister Biyuram Wahge reported that HIV/AIDS transmission via infected needles represents 66.55% of cases, while unprotected sex accounts for 30.55%. The council decided to enhance awareness campaigns on HIV and substance abuse, accelerate the Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyan, and promote a collaborative, multi-sectoral response to the increasing HIV and substance abuse crisis. The Arunachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society reported a total of 2,575 HIV-positive cases as of June 2024, with significant regional variations, particularly in the Papum Pare/Itanagar Capital Region and Namsai, which together account for 1,820 cases.
