World AIDS Day 2025: India Sees Major Decline in HIV Cases and AIDS-Related Deaths
India has marked World AIDS Day 2025 with a remarkable improvement in its fight against HIV, as new data released by the government shows sharp declines in new infections, AIDS-related deaths, and mother-to-child transmission over the past decade and a half. The report highlights major progress under the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP), reflecting stronger public health systems, wider testing access, and improved treatment coverage nationwide.
According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, new HIV infections in India have dropped by 49% between 2010 and 2024, marking a significant reduction from earlier highs. Even more striking is the 81% decline in AIDS-related deaths, showing how expanded treatment and timely diagnosis have helped save lives. Mother-to-child transmission has also reduced by 75% during the same period as more pregnant women receive early screening and treatment.
The Ministry states that these improvements are backed by major enhancements in HIV services. Testing has expanded dramatically, rising from 41.3 million tests in 2020–21 to 66.2 million tests in 2024–25, ensuring earlier detection and reduced transmission. Access to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) has also strengthened, with the number of people receiving treatment increasing from 1.49 million to 1.86 million in the last four years.
Viral load testing—crucial for monitoring treatment success—has almost doubled, increasing from 890,000 to 1.59 million tests. This ensures that patients achieve an undetectable viral load, which improves health outcomes and significantly reduces the risk of transmission.
The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that early detection and strong treatment access are essential in managing HIV effectively. With India’s expanding services, more people are diagnosed early and begin treatment sooner, preventing further immune system damage and lowering AIDS-related mortality.
World AIDS Day, observed on December 1 each year, serves as a moment of reflection and commitment. It honours the millions who have lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses, supports individuals living with HIV, and highlights the ongoing work needed in prevention, treatment, and human rights. The global theme for 2025 — “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response” — urges countries to strengthen healthcare systems, ensure equal access to services, and protect the dignity of all communities affected by HIV.
India’s latest report shows that while challenges remain, the country is moving steadily in the right direction with strong progress backed by public health initiatives and community efforts.
