Haryana Intensifies HIV/AIDS Fight with Major Funding and Policy Shifts
In a significant move to bolster public health infrastructure, the Haryana State AIDS Control Society (HSACS) has greenlit a comprehensive annual action plan for the fiscal year 2026-27, with a substantial budget exceeding Rs 47.16 crore. The decision was made during the 23rd executive committee meeting held in Chandigarh on Saturday, chaired by Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary of Health & Family Welfare.
Strategic Financial Allocations for Targeted Interventions
The approved plan outlines detailed financial allocations aimed at enhancing various aspects of HIV/AIDS control and prevention. Key budgetary provisions include:
- Rs 16.45 crore for targeted interventions and the link worker scheme, focusing on high-risk groups and community outreach.
- Rs 10.90 crore dedicated to ICTC/BSD services, which encompass integrated counseling and testing centers along with blood safety measures.
- Rs 6.22 crore allocated for institutional strengthening to improve administrative and operational capabilities.
- Rs 4.68 crore for care, support, and treatment programs, ensuring comprehensive medical assistance for affected individuals.
- Rs 3.75 crore earmarked for IEC activities, which involve information, education, and communication campaigns to raise public awareness.
- Rs 1.52 crore for STI services, addressing sexually transmitted infections as part of a holistic approach.
Expansion of Laboratory Infrastructure and Testing Protocols
A major highlight of the meeting was the approval and imminent operationalization of a second HIV Viral Load Laboratory in Panchkula, set to become functional within one month. Currently, Haryana relies on a single facility at PGIMS Rohtak, which serves 17 districts, while five additional districts are linked to the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS) in New Delhi. This new lab is expected to significantly reduce testing delays and improve diagnostic efficiency across the state.
In a groundbreaking policy shift, the committee endorsed a proposal for simultaneous HIV and syphilis testing of spouses of all antenatal care (ANC) women. According to revised estimates from the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO), Haryana's screening target for the financial year 2025-26 is set at 5,95,880 pregnant women. This initiative will necessitate approximately 12,00,000 dual tests annually to cover both pregnant women and their spouses, with the ultimate goal of achieving the Elimination of Vertical Transmission of HIV and Syphilis (EVTHS) to nearly zero levels.
Technological Innovations and Treatment Adherence Enhancements
To improve patient engagement and healthcare outcomes, the committee approved the development of a secure web-based platform. This digital tool will facilitate voice messages, SMS alerts, and follow-up reminders for all People Living With HIV (PLHIV). The platform aims to enhance treatment adherence, minimize loss to follow-up cases, and enable timely interactions with healthcare providers, thereby streamlining the support system for affected individuals.
Progress Review and Commitment to Global Targets
During the meeting, officials reviewed advancements in HIV testing and treatment linkages, reaffirming the state's dedication to the ambitious 95-95-99 targets. These goals strive to ensure that 95% of PLHIV are identified, 95% of those diagnosed are linked to and retained on antiretroviral therapy, and 99% of individuals on treatment achieve sustained viral load suppression. This commitment underscores Haryana's proactive stance in aligning with global health standards and combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic through data-driven and outcome-oriented strategies.
The comprehensive measures approved by HSACS reflect a multi-faceted approach to public health, combining financial investment, infrastructure development, policy innovation, and technological integration to accelerate Haryana's fight against HIV/AIDS and strengthen its overall healthcare framework.
