World AIDS Day 2025: Between 2010 and 2024, India recorded a 48.7% decline in new HIV infections, an 81.4% reduction in AIDS-related deaths, and a 74.6% drop in mother-to-child HIV transmission, the government reported on Sunday. The country continues to make significant strides under the current phase of the National AIDS Control Programme.
“HIV testing increased from 4.13 crore (2020–21) to 6.62 crore (2024–25); access to antiretroviral treatment rose from 14.94 lakh to 18.60 lakh PLHIV; and viral load testing nearly doubled from 8.90 lakh to 15.98 lakh in the same period,” said the Health Ministry.
These results exceed international benchmarks and emphasize India’s leading role, ongoing national funding, research-driven approaches, and strong community participation.
World AIDS Day is marked each year on December 1 to promote awareness of HIV/AIDS and show solidarity with individuals affected by the virus. It also serves as a time to honor the memory of those who have died from the illness.
History of World AIDS Day
World AIDS Day, first marked in 1988, was the inaugural global health observance. Initiated by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations, it aimed to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS. From its inception until 2004, UNAIDS spearheaded the campaign. Starting that year, the Global Steering Committee of the World AIDS Campaign began choosing an annual theme in collaboration with civil society, organizations, and government bodies engaged in the AIDS response.
World AIDS Day Observance at Vigyan Bhawan
On Monday, Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda will lead the national observance of World AIDS Day at Vigyan Bhawan, joined by senior officials to highlight the government’s ongoing commitment to HIV prevention, treatment, care, and reducing stigma.
Hosted by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), the event will bring together government representatives, development partners, youth leaders, community advocates, people living with HIV (PLHIV), and frontline healthcare workers, reflecting a unified effort to accelerate India’s progress toward eliminating AIDS as a public health threat.
The event will open with a youth-led performance promoting awareness and responsible behaviour, followed by an exhibition showcasing innovations and community initiatives under the National AIDS and STD Control Programme. Beneficiary stories and an audio-visual presentation will highlight India’s progress under NACP-V, capped by the launch of a campaign video series on Youth and Awareness, Elimination of Vertical Transmission, and Stigma and Discrimination.
