AP ranks 7th in AIDS control performance

Andhra Pradesh has significantly improved its performance in AIDS control, securing the 7th position in the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) Performance Index for States and Union Territories. The state climbed 10 places from its previous 17th rank, reflecting its enhanced efforts between April and December 2024.
Key achievements include a perfect score of 100% in the Targeted Intervention (TI) and Link Workers Scheme (LWS), demonstrating the state’s strong commitment to combating HIV/AIDS. Under TI, Andhra Pradesh reached high-risk groups, including female sex workers (FSWs), through 96 NGOs operating across the state, focusing on identifying affected individuals and their contacts. The LWS initiative identified 100 high-risk villages per district to raise awareness and track AIDS cases, with 96% of high-risk individuals screened for the disease.
Additionally, 88% of individuals in high-risk groups were screened for syphilis, while 75% of pregnant women underwent testing. The Andhra Pradesh State AIDS Control Society (APSACS) also utilised 90% of the allocated funds, further enhancing its performance. The state’s social media campaign against AIDS was recognised by NACO for its effective outreach.
Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav praised APSACS for its focused approach, commending Project Director Dr Siri and her team for their dedication. Since 2004, the state has identified around 2.25 lakh AIDS-affected individuals. NACO has allocated Rs 127 crore to APSACS for 2024-25 to continue its efforts.