Meghalaya currently has the highest HIV caseload in the country, with 10,293 people living with HIV undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART), Health Minister W Shylla informed the Assembly on February 25.
Responding to a question from NPP legislator Mehtab Chandee A Sangma, Shylla said the state government has approved a Rs 25-crore mission-mode programme for five years to tackle what he described as an “alarming rise” in HIV/AIDS cases.
According to the minister, 749 HIV-linked deaths have been recorded in the state over the past decade. East Khasi Hills accounted for the highest number at 435, followed by West Jaintia Hills (123) and East Jaintia Hills (90). Other districts reporting fatalities include Ri Bhoi (51), Eastern West Khasi Hills (16), West Khasi Hills (8), South West Khasi Hills (7), West Garo Hills (9), East Garo Hills (4), South Garo Hills (3), North Garo Hills (1) and South West Garo Hills (2).
Shylla clarified that the deaths were due to opportunistic infections and not directly caused by HIV/AIDS.
Addressing concerns over the rising number of infections, the minister pointed to strict confidentiality norms under the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, along with social stigma, as major hurdles. He said HIV testing requires consent, a person’s status must remain confidential, and treatment cannot be enforced — factors that often delay early detection and timely intervention.
Despite these challenges, he said the Health Department is stepping up awareness campaigns to encourage voluntary testing and adherence to treatment. Shylla also credited Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and the state cabinet for backing the five-year mission, which aims to expand testing facilities and strengthen manpower.
Replying to additional queries, including from VPP MLA Ardent Basaiawmoit, the minister said the government is working closely with community stakeholders to promote testing and ensure patients continue treatment. He added that MLAs have collectively contributed funds to donate a Bolero vehicle to assist people living with HIV.
On infrastructure, Shylla informed the House that Meghalaya currently has 392 standalone Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTCs) across districts, besides four mobile ICTCs. He also said the National AIDS Control Organisation has sanctioned Rs 17.8 crore to the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society for 2025–26 to support awareness drives, targeted interventions, opioid substitution therapy centres, expanded screening and care services.
“HIV is no longer a death sentence. While there is no cure, it is treatable and people can lead a dignified life,” the minister said.