The Karnataka government has ordered HIV testing and counselling camps across all degree and engineering colleges after authorities flagged an unusual rise in AIDS cases among students. Acting on a recommendation from the state AIDS society, the directive makes organising these camps mandatory in government, government‑aided and private colleges, while explicitly requiring that any testing be conducted only with the informed consent of students.
Recent national media reports, citing government figures, say more than 7,000 young people aged 18–25 in Karnataka have been identified as HIV‑positive. According to the National AIDS Control Organisation, Karnataka ranks third in the country by absolute number of people living with HIV. The state is estimated to have roughly 260,000 people living with the virus; only about 205,000 of them are currently on treatment, and an estimated 54,000 remain unaware of their status. Health experts have expressed deep concern about these gaps.
Official statistics indicate the infection is spreading rapidly among young adults, particularly those aged 18–35. Reported HIV‑positive cases rose from 44,500 in 2023–24 to 66,600 in 2025–26, a sharp increase that has prompted renewed government action. Authorities say they will also roll out a QR‑code scanning initiative to give students quick access to verified information and resources on HIV prevention, testing and care.
The government has framed the college camps as part of a broader push to strengthen awareness, early diagnosis and linkage to treatment in higher education institutions. Officials stress that while testing will be scaled up on campuses, safeguarding student consent, confidentiality and access to counselling and follow‑up care will be essential to the programme’s success.
Original Source: https://assam.nenow.in/terrible-news-7000-college-students-infected-with-aids-government-issues-strict-guidelines/
Category: দেশ,শীর্ষ সংবাদ,স্বাস্থ্য
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Publish Date: 2026-07-29 20:25:00
