Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on October 27 announced a five-year special mission, backed by an initial allocation of Rs 25 crore, to combat rising HIV cases in the state, which has recorded 9,244 people living with the virus. The announcement was made at the State Red Ribbon Youth Festival 2026 in Shillong, where the chief minister called for greater youth participation, expanded HIV testing and stronger efforts to eliminate the stigma attached to HIV/AIDS and drug abuse.
Sangma stressed that tackling the challenge cannot be left to the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society or the health department alone, emphasising that a coordinated effort involving all government departments and citizens is essential. “There is an urgent need for all of us to work together. It is not just the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society, the health department or the government, but the responsibility and participation of every citizen that will help us ensure that we are able to control this before it gets more difficult in the days to come,” he said.
The five-year HIV mission will adopt a multi-sectoral approach, mobilising the entire government machinery to strengthen HIV testing, treatment and awareness programmes across Meghalaya. The strategy is aligned with the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, which aim to ensure that 95 per cent of people living with HIV know their status, 95 per cent of those diagnosed receive antiretroviral therapy (ART), and 95 per cent of those on treatment achieve viral suppression.
Underlining the importance of early diagnosis and continued treatment, the chief minister said antiretroviral medicines can suppress the virus and help prevent its transmission. The mission will focus on encouraging people to get tested and ensuring that those diagnosed have access to sustained treatment and supportive healthcare services.
Sangma also flagged stigma as a major barrier in the fight against HIV, noting that fear of discrimination often discourages people from seeking testing and treatment. “Reducing the stigma surrounding HIV and drug abuse is essential for encouraging people to reach out,” he said. Urging young people to play an active role in the campaign, he called on them to make informed decisions, resist peer pressure and feel confident in refusing unsafe situations.
Recognising excellence in the state’s HIV response, South Garo Hills received the Surakshit District Award during the festival. Ialong Community Health Centre was honoured as the Best Performing Antiretroviral Therapy Centre for its services to people living with HIV, while the Mihmyntdu Community Social Welfare Association of West Jaintia Hills bagged the Best Performing Targeted Intervention award.
The State Red Ribbon Youth Festival seeks to engage young people as peer educators and advocates in the fight against HIV/AIDS through initiatives in schools, colleges and villages. Winners of various competitions organised as part of the festival were felicitated by the chief minister.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/meghalaya/story/meghalayas-hiv-count-at-9244-state-rolls-out-five-year-mission-1468259-2026-10-27?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-10-27 22:05:00
