HIV Testing Before Marriage May Become Compulsory! This State Plans Tough Measures to Combat HIV/AIDS

Shillong (The Uttam Hindu): The Meghalaya government is considering introducing a new law to make HIV/AIDS testing mandatory before marriage in the state. Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh stated that this move aims to tackle the rising cases of HIV/AIDS in Meghalaya, which ranks sixth nationally in terms of prevalence.

Key Highlights

1. HIV/AIDS Prevalence: Meghalaya has a high burden of HIV/AIDS, particularly in the Northeast region.

2. Proposed Law: The government is exploring the possibility of making HIV/AIDS testing compulsory before marriage, following Goa's example.

3. Region-Specific Strategies: The government plans to hold meetings in different regions, including Garo Hills and Jaintia Hills, to develop targeted strategies.

4. Challenges: The health minister emphasized that awareness is no longer a major issue, but improving testing and screening is a significant challenge.

Statistics

East Khasi Hills: 3,432 cases of HIV/AIDS have been reported, with only 1,581 patients undergoing treatment.

Deaths due to Lack of ART: 159 deaths have occurred in the district due to lack of antiretroviral therapy.

Government's Approach

The government is working on formulating a comprehensive HIV/AIDS policy in mission mode. The Health Department has been directed to prepare a cabinet note for this policy. The government aims to ensure that all those tested are included in the treatment system, emphasizing that HIV/AIDS is not fatal if treated properly.