Karnataka mandates mandatory HIV testing and counselling camps in all colleges

The Karnataka government has ordered every government, aided and private college in the state to hold compulsory HIV testing and counselling camps. The directive, issued by the State AIDS Prevention Society, follows data showing more than 7,000 students aged 18‑25 have tested HIV positive and that over 54,000 people in Karnataka remain unaware of their infection.

Karnataka ranks third in India for HIV prevalence, with roughly 260,000 people living with the virus; about 205,000 are on antiretroviral therapy while the undiagnosed population poses a public‑health risk. Infections among 18‑35‑year‑olds have risen sharply, from 44,500 in 2023‑24 to an estimated 66,600 in 2025‑26. The new college‑based programme aims to boost early detection, reduce stigma, and ensure timely treatment for affected students.