India Reaffirms Commitment to Ending HIV/AIDS by 2030 at UN Event

During her speech, the Minister reiterated India's dedication to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of eliminating HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Singh Patel, addressed a high-level event at the United Nations titled "Revitalized Multilateralism: Recommitting to Ending AIDS Together," organized by UNAIDS, the Global Fund, and PEPFAR.

During her speech, the Minister reiterated India's dedication to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of eliminating HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. She outlined India's progress, including the 5th phase of the National AIDS and STD Control Programme (2021-2026), fully funded by the government. According to the 2023 India HIV Estimations report, over 2.5 million people are living with HIV in the country. Despite this, India's adult HIV prevalence stands at 0.2%, with new infections reduced by 44% since 2010, surpassing the global reduction rate of 39%.

"India has made significant advances in combating HIV/AIDS through innovative programs and strong partnerships," said Smt. Patel. She highlighted initiatives like Red Ribbon Clubs and mass-awareness events such as the RED RUN Marathon, which target youth engagement.

India also leads in offering free HIV and syphilis testing to pregnant women, with over 30 million tests conducted annually. Additionally, more than 1.7 million people receive free Anti-retroviral Therapy (ART) through India's public healthcare system.

The Minister emphasized India's critical role as the largest global supplier of anti-retroviral drugs, providing over 70% of the world's supply, ensuring affordable treatment access for countries in need.

Efforts to reduce HIV-related stigma have been reinforced through the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act 2017, which mandates the appointment of ombudsmen in all Indian states to address grievances and promote HIV prevention policies. India’s integrated approach, addressing co-morbidities such as tuberculosis and viral hepatitis, further strengthens the national health response.

In her concluding remarks, Smt. Patel called for continued global cooperation: "Breaking silos and building synergies is the mantra of the Government of India. Through collaboration, we will strengthen the fight against HIV/AIDS and build a healthier world for all."

India remains firmly committed to ending HIV/AIDS by 2030 through inclusive strategies and renewed multilateralism.