Shillong: Meghalaya continues to face challenges related to HIV transmission, stigma, misconceptions, and delayed uptake of HIV testing and treatment services, prompting govt to launch an intensified IEC campaign in 2026.The campaign will be formally launched by state health and family welfare minister Wailadmiki Shylla at Lady Keane College, Shillong, on International Youth Day on Wednesday. It aims to build wide public awareness by delivering consistent, culturally appropriate, and evidence-based information through community engagement, mass media, digital platforms, and interpersonal communication.According to Meghalaya AIDS Control Society statistics shared in November 2025, more than 10,000 people, including nearly 500 children, have been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in the state.The India HIV Estimation 2025 report projected Meghalaya’s adult HIV prevalence at around 0.40% in 2024, nearly double the national average of around 0.20%. East Jaintia Hills was identified as a critical priority district, with an estimated adult prevalence of about 2.388% and around 2,311 people living with HIV.In February, the Union health ministry identified East Jaintia Hills, East Khasi Hills, Ri-Bhoi, and West Jaintia Hills as high-priority districts under its Mission AIDS Suraksha drive to strengthen efforts against HIV transmission.Target groups for the state-level campaign include adolescents and youth, school and college students, pregnant women, vulnerable populations, healthcare providers, community representatives, govt officials, media professionals, and social media influencers.“The objective of Intensified IEC Campaign 3.0 is to address HIV transmission and prevention, myths and misconceptions, the importance of early testing and treatment, safer sexual behaviour, STI prevention, the link between substance use and HIV, and the need to end stigma and discrimination. It will also promote the National AIDS Helpline 1097 and the online HIV Risk Assessment Tool,” an official said.
