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Chennai, July 13, 2025:
Recent surveillance by the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Epidemiology (ICMR-NIE) has revealed that four southern states—Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana—and the Union Territory of Puducherry collectively account for more than 33% of India’s 2.54 million people living with HIV.
Key Findings
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Concentration of Cases:
Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana alone contribute nearly 24% of the national HIV burden, reporting 2.8 lakh, 1.69 lakh, and 1.58 lakh cases respectively. -
High-Prevalence Districts:
Out of 120 districts in these regions, 54 have been identified as high-priority for focused intervention. Karnataka has 24 such districts, Tamil Nadu 15, Telangana 13, and Kerala 2. -
Prevalence Rates:
While the national adult HIV prevalence stands at 0.20% (ages 15-49), Telangana (0.44%) and Karnataka (0.42%) report rates more than double the national average. -
New Infections:
In 2023, India saw an estimated 68,450 new HIV infections, with the five southern states accounting for about 12% of these cases. Notably, seven districts—three in Karnataka and four in Telangana—each recorded over 200 new infections. -
Mother-to-Child Transmission:
An estimated 19,960 pregnant women across India required prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) services in 2023. The southern states represented 19.4% of this need, with 17 districts in the region each recording PMTCT needs for more than 50 pregnant women.
Geographic Disparities
The ICMR-NIE report underscores significant geographic disparities in HIV prevalence across India. While the overall epidemic remains low, certain districts and states continue to face a disproportionate burden, necessitating targeted interventions and sustained public health efforts.
Focused Interventions
Authorities have prioritized 54 districts in the south for intensified AIDS control programs, aiming to curb new infections and improve access to treatment and prevention services.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on data and findings reported by the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Epidemiology as referenced in The Tribune. The information is intended for general awareness and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice or guidance. For specific health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.
