Bengaluru: Karnataka has reported a worrying rise in HIV infections among young people, with more than 7,000 students and youth aged 18 to 25 testing positive for the virus. In response, the Karnataka Government has made it mandatory for all government, aided, and private colleges to organize HIV testing and counselling camps.

The decision has been taken on the directions of the Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS), with the aim of identifying infections at an early stage, providing counselling, and preventing further spread of the disease among young people.

Karnataka Ranks Third in India

According to data from the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), Karnataka has the third-highest number of people living with HIV in the country. The state currently has approximately 260,000 people living with HIV, of whom nearly 205,000 are receiving Antiretroviral Therapy (ART).

Health experts say that while the number of infections is rising, one of the biggest challenges is identifying people who are unaware of their HIV-positive status.

Over 56,000 People Unaware of Their HIV Status

State officials estimate that 56,406 people in Karnataka do not know they are living with HIV, making early diagnosis and timely treatment a major public health priority.

Data also indicate that the 18–35 age group has witnessed the sharpest increase in infections. The number of HIV-positive individuals in this category has risen from 44,500 in 2023–24 to 66,600 in 2025–26.

Lack of Awareness Remains a Major Concern

Health authorities say many young people still lack adequate awareness about HIV transmission and prevention. There is limited understanding of the risks associated with unprotected sexual contact, contributing to the growing number of infections.

In addition, social stigma, fear of discrimination, and a false sense of being “not at risk” discourage many individuals from voluntarily getting tested, delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Health Camps to Be Held in Colleges

As part of the new initiative, engineering colleges, degree colleges, and other higher educational institutions will host HIV testing, screening, and counselling camps.

The campaign will be implemented with the support of Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) and the Department of Collegiate Education. Existing Red Ribbon Clubs in colleges will also be used to conduct debates, street plays, awareness campaigns, and educational activities to improve HIV awareness among students.

Focus on Early Detection and Awareness

Health experts emphasize that early testing, timely treatment, and public awareness remain the most effective tools for controlling HIV. Through this initiative, the Karnataka Government aims not only to identify undiagnosed cases but also to educate young people and reduce the spread of HIV across the state.