Aizawl DAPCC Meeting Addresses HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control in Mizoram

The Aizawl District AIDS Prevention and Control Committee (DAPCC) held a crucial meeting on June 29, 2026, at the DC Pisapui Hall, chaired by Addl. DC Pu Vanlalrova. The primary agenda was to review the committee's activities during 2025-2026 and formulate robust strategies to prevent new HIV-positive infections while ensuring the detection of all existing cases within the district. The meeting specifically focused on ongoing efforts, including the upcoming Red Ribbon School Quiz Competition, 2026, an initiative aimed at raising awareness among students. Discussions also encompassed a demonstration of 'Condom Finder Apps,' exploring ways to enhance access to condoms as a preventive measure. During the session, the committee reviewed significant statistics regarding the HIV/AIDS situation in Aizawl. It was reported that 10,715 individuals are currently undergoing Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in Aizawl district. Additionally, 14 patients were identified as co-infected with both Tuberculosis (TB) and HIV. Detailed data on High-Risk Groups (HRG) was also presented: out of 3,613 Injecting Drug Users (IDUs) tested, 39 were found to be HIV-positive. Among 366 Female Sex Workers (FSW) tested, 12 were HIV-positive, and out of 7,333 Men Having Sex with Men (MSM) tested, 13 were found to be HIV-positive. This meeting underscores the continuous and serious efforts by local authorities in Mizoram to combat HIV/AIDS, a disease that presents a significant public health challenge in the state. Mizoram consistently records the highest adult HIV prevalence rate in India, standing at 2.75% as of January 2026, which is more than thirteen times the national average of 0.20%. Despite this alarming rate, Mizoram has shown improvements in its national HIV prevention ranking, climbing from fifth in 2024-25 to third in 2025-26, and a declining trend in new HIV infections since 2018. The Mizoram State AIDS Control Society (MSACS) plays a pivotal role in leading the state's response to HIV/AIDS through comprehensive prevention strategies, accessible treatment, care, and support services. Organisations like DAPCC work in coordination with MSACS and District AIDS Prevention and Control Units (DAPCUs) to decentralize the programme's coordination, monitoring, and strategic information management, ensuring that interventions reach the district and sub-district levels. The state government, in collaboration with organizations like MSACS and the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), has initiated various campaigns, including intensified Information, Education & Communication (IEC) efforts and HIV test drive campaigns. These campaigns aim to educate the youth, encourage healthy lifestyles, promote risk-free behavior, and eliminate stigma associated with the disease. Health Minister Lalrinpuii has emphasized the need for a behavioral approach, focusing on abstinence, being faithful, and consistent condom use. Challenges persist, as evidenced by reports showing 3,354 new HIV infections between April and December 2025, with unsafe sexual practices remaining the dominant mode of transmission. The highest incidence of infection is often reported among young adults aged 25-34. Despite these challenges, the state continues to strengthen its infrastructure, with 14 ART centers established across Mizoram, providing treatment to thousands of patients. The DAPCC meeting serves as a testament to the ongoing commitment to address this critical health issue. By reviewing past actions and planning future interventions like the Red Ribbon School Quiz and promoting innovative tools like Condom Finder Apps, Aizawl District continues its dedicated efforts to achieve the goals of the National AIDS Control Programme and mitigate the impact of HIV/AIDS in Mizoram. The involvement of various departments and community representatives in these meetings is crucial for a multi-sectoral response to the epidemic.

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