Shillong, February 25 (IANS). More than 10,293 people living with HIV are taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Meghalaya by January 2026. This information was given to the state assembly on Wednesday.
Responding to a question raised by National People’s Party (NPP) lawmaker Mehtab Chandi A Sangma from Gambegre, Health Minister Valadamiki Shaila said HIV/AIDS related deaths in the state had reached 749 in the last ten years.
East Khasi Hills reported the highest number of deaths at 435, followed by West Jaintia Hills with 123 and East Jaintia Hills with 90. There were fewer deaths in comparison to other districts. The minister clarified that none of the deaths were directly caused by HIV/AIDS. He said it is noteworthy that all the deaths reported were due to acquired infections, and none of the deaths were directly attributed to HIV/AIDS.
Expressing concern over the increasing cases of infection, the Minister said that the Health Department is facing legal and social challenges under the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act. He said that HIV status should remain confidential and testing cannot be done without consent. Also, patients cannot be forced to take medications. Stigma remains a major obstacle to testing and treatment.
Despite these hurdles, the minister said the government is running awareness campaigns to improve early detection and treatment.
The minister credited Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and the state cabinet for approving a five-year mission-mode program to stem the alarming rise of HIV/AIDS in Meghalaya. He said Rs 25 crore has been sanctioned for this initiative, which will be implemented to increase testing facilities, manpower and outreach services over the next five years.
Responding to a question by Voice of the People Party (VPP) MLA Ardent Basiavmoite, the minister said the government is committed to fighting the disease on a war footing in collaboration with community organisations. He informed that an assembly forum on HIV/AIDS has already been formed and the MLAs have come together and donated a vehicle to help people living with HIV.
“HIV is no longer a death sentence. Although it cannot be cured, it can be treated, enabling people to live a dignified life,” the minister said. Meghalaya currently has 392 integrated counseling and testing centres, along with four mobile ICTCs running across the state.
–IANS
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