Tamil Nadu reaches key HIV testing and treatment targets

The Indian state of Tamil Nadu has reached a major HIV care milestone: 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those diagnosed receive treatment, and 95% of those treated have achieved viral suppression, its health minister announced on October 12.

Viral suppression means treatment has reduced the amount of HIV in the body to very low levels. Officials said the state met the national HIV programme’s “95-95-95” targets in September.

The minister also reported a longer-term decline in HIV prevalence, from 0.40% in 2010 to 0.19% in 2023, a reduction of more than half. Tamil Nadu provides free HIV testing and treatment, supported by 2,656 screening facilities at government hospitals and primary health centres. A network of 104 nongovernmental and social organisations works with groups at higher risk of HIV.

Support beyond medical care is also expanding. From November, monthly financial assistance for children living with HIV will increase to between 1,500 and 3,000 rupees, depending on their family circumstances. The highest payment will go to children who have lost both parents. Children without HIV who have lost both parents to HIV/AIDS will receive 1,500 rupees a month.

The assistance is intended to help provide nutritious food, keep children in education and support continued treatment for those who need it.