Tiruvannamalai to be AIDS free by 2030: Collector

District Collector K. Tharpagaraj on Monday said Tiruvannamalai district is steadily moving towards the goal of becoming AIDS-free by 2030, driven by sustained prevention efforts, expanded testing facilities and continuous awareness programmes.
He was speaking at a World AIDS Day 2025 awareness programme organised by the Tiruvannamalai District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit at the District Rural Development Agency office.
Addressing the gathering, the Collector said that although World AIDS Day is observed annually on December 1, the programme was held on December 16 in the district to strengthen grassroots-level awareness.
He noted that the State AIDS Control Association, functioning under the State government, has been implementing effective preventive measures in coordination with non-governmental organisations to prevent new HIV infections.
He said the HIV prevalence rate in Tiruvannamalai district has declined from 0.55 per cent in 2010 to 0.19 per cent in the financial year 2023-24.
This figure is lower than the State average of 0.20 per cent and the national average of 0.23 per cent.
Referring to this year’s World AIDS Day theme, “Transforming the HIV/AIDS Response by Overcoming Barriers”, he stressed the need for inclusive and innovative strategies to achieve the 2030 target.
The Collector said 26 HIV testing centres are functioning in the district, with treatment facilities available at one community health centre and six centres in taluk government hospitals.
Regular HIV and syphilis testing for pregnant women is being carried out in all government hospitals and primary health centres.
Mobile trust centres are reaching hilly and rural areas, while awareness campaigns are conducted through art groups.
He added that monthly financial assistance for children affected by HIV has been increased to Rs. 1,000, benefiting 275 children. Integrated testing camps, contact tracing and awareness programmes in schools and colleges through the Red Cross are also being conducted.
Earlier, the Collector administered an HIV/AIDS pledge, launched a signature campaign and participated in a human chain.
He also distributed certificates and prizes to students.
The programme was attended by District Health Officer and District AIDS Control Officer Dr. Prakash, Project Manager Kavitha, District Social Welfare Officer Gomathi, Regional Transport Officer Karunanidhi and other officials.