Meghalaya’s fight against HIV intensifies as state data shows over 10,293 residents on life-sustaining ART by January 2026. Unveiled in the assembly on Wednesday, these numbers underscore a public health crisis demanding urgent action.
Health Minister A.L. Hek, replying to NPP’s Mehtab Chandee Sangma, reported 749 deaths associated with HIV/AIDS in the past decade. East Khasi Hills led tragically with 435, trailed by West Jaintia (123) and East Jaintia Hills (90). Lesser incidences marked other areas.
Crucially, the minister stressed that HIV/AIDS wasn’t the direct killer; opportunistic infections exploited weakened defenses in all instances.
Rising infections worry officials, with the Prevention Act imposing strict confidentiality rules—no coerced tests or treatments. Stigma exacerbates the issue, blocking pathways to care.
Government response is robust: awareness drives for early intervention, plus a landmark five-year Rs 25 crore mission approved by CM Conrad K. Sangma. Funds will fortify testing centers, hire more staff, and extend services to remote corners.
To VPP legislator Ardent Basaiahmoiit’s query, Hek detailed partnerships with community bodies, an active assembly HIV forum, and a donated ambulance for patients.
With 392 ICTCs and four mobile units operational, the message is clear: ‘HIV is treatable, not terminal.’ This infrastructure supports dignified living for those affected, fostering hope amid the statistics.