Meghalaya face surging HIV crisis, warns CM Conrad Sangma

SHILLONG, OCT 27: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Tuesday warned that the state’s HIV/AIDS burden is rising annually, calling for a “whole-of-society” approach to curb the spreading health crisis.
“Meghalaya is among the States with the highest HIV/AIDS burden in the country, with numbers growing every year, and that controlling it requires the participation of every citizen, not just Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS), the health department, or the government,” Sangma said.
Speaking at the State Red Ribbon Youth Festival 2026 and Samman Samaroh Award Ceremony, organised by the MACS, the Chief Minister stressed the need for every citizen to work together to control HIV/AIDS before the situation worsens in the days to come
Outlining the strategic plan of the state government to combat rising HIV/AIDS, the Chief Minister said a five-year mission has been initiated with an initial budget of Rs 25 crore.
He said the strategic plan follows the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets framework, which focuses on identifying positive cases, providing antiviral medication, and ensuring viral suppression.
“An all-of-government approach is being adopted, involving the entire government machinery rather than just the AIDS Control Society or the health department, and the entire administration is committed to supporting the mission across all levels,” Sangma said.
The Chief Minister also informed that current efforts include addressing drug issues and adapting strategies through continuous improvement and support.
Sangma said that antiretroviral medications are available to suppress the virus and prevent its spread.
He added : the mission focuses on expanding testing and providing HIV-positive individuals with continuous treatment through streamlined, accessible mechanisms.
“Our message to the youth is simple: It is okay to get tested. It is okay to seek treatment. It is okay to ask for help. We must break the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS and ensure that everyone receives the care, dignity and support they deserve,” the CM underscored.
South Garo Hills received the Surakshit District Award, while Ialong CH received the Best Performing ART Centre for commendable performance in delivering ART services to PLHIV and Mihmyntdu Community Social Welfare Association, West Jaintia Hills received the Best Performing TI during the occasion.
The Red Ribbon Youth Festival brings young people into the State’s HIV/AIDS response as peer educators and advocates in schools, colleges