The National AIDS Control Organization (NACO), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, is intensifying its efforts to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS through a robust, multi-pronged communication strategy aimed at prevention, early detection, and reducing stigma across the country.
In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel, highlighted that NACO is implementing a comprehensive multimedia campaign to enhance public understanding and promote access to HIV-related services. This includes the use of mass media, outdoor advertising (such as hoardings, bus panels, and IEC vans), and culturally relevant outreach like folk performances and information kiosks.
To expand engagement, particularly among youth and digital-savvy audiences, the campaign also leverages digital platforms and social media, ensuring that vital information reaches a broader demographic in real time.
At the interpersonal level, NACO is conducting training and sensitisation programmes for key grassroots stakeholders including Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Anganwadi workers, ASHAs, and members of Panchayati Raj Institutions. These efforts are essential in promoting behaviour change and building awareness at the community level.
Targeted outreach is being conducted through 1,619 Targeted Intervention (TI) projects to address the specific needs of High-Risk Groups (HRGs) such as Female Sex Workers (FSW), Men who have Sex with Men (MSM), People Who Inject Drugs (PWID), Hijra/Transgender individuals, truck drivers, and migrants. These initiatives are designed to provide equitable access to prevention, testing, treatment, and care services, ensuring no one is left behind in the national response to HIV/AIDS.
To combat stigma and discrimination against People Living with HIV (PLHIV), thematic campaigns are being rolled out in workplaces, healthcare institutions, educational settings, and community spaces. These campaigns focus on promoting inclusivity and sensitising the public to the rights and dignity of PLHIV.
In line with the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017, the government has also appointed Ombudsmen in 34 States and Union Territories to address complaints related to HIV-related discrimination. This legal and institutional framework reflects the government’s commitment to upholding the rights of PLHIV and creating a supportive and non-discriminatory environment.
Through this integrated and inclusive communication approach, the government reaffirms its commitment to eliminating stigma, expanding access to services, and ultimately ending AIDS as a public health threat in India.