In a major public health initiative, the Karnataka government has directed colleges across the state to organize HIV testing, screening, and counselling camps following concerns over a growing number of HIV infections among young adults. The move, spearheaded by the Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS), aims to strengthen early diagnosis, improve awareness, and connect affected individuals with treatment services.
According to official data, Karnataka is among the states with the highest HIV burden in India, with nearly 2.6 lakh people living with HIV. Health authorities have also identified a significant number of individuals who remain unaware of their HIV-positive status, highlighting the need for expanded testing and outreach efforts.
The new initiative will see integrated health camps conducted in government, aided, and private colleges in collaboration with educational institutions, including engineering and degree colleges. The programme will provide voluntary HIV testing, confidential counselling, and awareness sessions focused on prevention and risk reduction.
Officials said the campaign is particularly focused on young adults, as recent trends indicate a higher concentration of new infections within the 18–35 age group. Limited awareness, social stigma, and reluctance to undergo testing continue to be key challenges in identifying cases at an early stage.
As part of the awareness drive, KSAPS is also promoting the “Know Your Status” campaign, encouraging individuals to assess their HIV risk and seek timely testing. Digital tools and QR-code-based platforms have been introduced to help students access information, locate nearby testing centres, and connect with counsellors while maintaining privacy and confidentiality.
The government stated that the objectives of the college-based programme include increasing HIV awareness, promoting voluntary testing, reducing stigma, and ensuring that individuals diagnosed with HIV receive timely access to free antiretroviral therapy (ART).
Health experts emphasize that HIV remains a manageable chronic condition when diagnosed early and treated consistently. They also continue to stress the importance of accurate information about HIV transmission, prevention, and treatment to combat misconceptions and discrimination associated with the disease.
The statewide college outreach programme is expected to play a crucial role in improving HIV detection rates and strengthening public health efforts among Karnataka’s youth population.
