More than 10,293 individuals in Meghalaya are currently undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV as of January 2026, making it the state with the highest number of HIV cases in India, as disclosed in the state Assembly. Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla, in response to a query by NPP legislator Mehtab Chandee A. Sangma, mentioned that the state has witnessed 749 HIV/AIDS-related deaths over the past decade.
The East Khasi Hills recorded the most fatalities at 435, followed by West Jaintia Hills with 123 and East Jaintia Hills with 90 deaths. Other districts reported lower numbers of deaths, with Ri Bhoi at 51, Eastern West Khasi Hills at 16, and West Khasi Hills at 8, among others. Shylla clarified that none of these deaths were directly caused by HIV/AIDS but were due to opportunistic infections.
Addressing concerns about the increasing infections, the minister highlighted legal and social challenges faced by the Health Department under the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act. Shylla emphasized the importance of maintaining confidentiality of HIV status, obtaining consent for testing, and ensuring voluntary medication intake, citing stigma as a significant obstacle to testing and treatment.
Despite these challenges, the government is intensifying awareness campaigns to enhance early detection and treatment accessibility. The state cabinet, led by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, approved a five-year mission to combat the escalating HIV/AIDS situation in Meghalaya, allocating Rs 25 crore for the initiative. The program aims to enhance testing facilities, manpower, and outreach services over the next five years.
In response to a follow-up question by VPP legislator Ardent Basaiawmoit, Shylla affirmed the government’s commitment to combat the disease vigorously, including engaging with community organizations. He mentioned the establishment of an Assembly forum on HIV/AIDS and the collective donation of a vehicle by legislators to support individuals living with HIV. Shylla emphasized that while HIV cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively, enabling individuals to lead dignified lives.
Meghalaya currently operates 392 Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres, along with four mobile ICTCs across the state.
