Meghalaya Reports Highest HIV Caseload in India, Launches Five-Year Intervention Plan

Meghalaya has the highest HIV caseload in India, with over 10,000 patients currently receiving antiretroviral therapy, Health Minister W Shylla informed the state Assembly. The government has approved a Rs 25 crore, five-year mission-mode programme to address the rising HIV cases. Over the past decade, 749 deaths linked to opportunistic infections among HIV patients were reported, with East Khasi Hills most affected. Challenges include confidentiality laws and social stigma, which hinder testing and treatment uptake. The government is intensifying awareness campaigns and expanding testing facilities with community support.