By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 28: Twenty-four individuals across Meghalaya were found HIV-positive during a large-scale testing drive conducted by the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS) between September and November, officials said on Friday.
Briefing the media, MACS Project Director Dr KL Iawbor said the society completed testing across 138 sentinel sites under its Integrated HIV Campaign, reaching 6,882 individuals. Of those who tested positive, 87% were detected during outreach programmes conducted directly in localities.
Dr Iawbor reiterated that HIV screening must follow proper counselling and consent protocols. “We cannot do random testing. We counsel first, and only with consent do we proceed,” she said, adding that all HIV-positive individuals are immediately linked to treatment centres.
She noted that HIV cases in Meghalaya continue to rise mainly due to unprotected heterosexual activity and because many high-risk individuals hesitate to come forward for testing. “This virus is dangerous. Each one of us must take responsibility so that we can make our state and country HIV-free by 2030,” she stressed.
The MACS has submitted proposals to the state government seeking more OST centres and confirmatory testing facilities, particularly for remote areas. “The proposal is ready and submitted. It now depends on the government,” Dr Iawbor added.
Meanwhile, Meghalaya will join the global community in observing World AIDS Day 2025 on December 1 under the theme ‘Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response’, announced by UNAIDS and the International AIDS Society (IAS).
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and legislators from East Khasi Hills will attend the state-level programme at the State Convention Centre.
The event will be attended by ministers, medical colleges, nursing and paramedical institutions, and people living with HIV. A biker rally will also be held, starting from the venue and passing through the DC’s office and Police Bazaar before returning.
