Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has launched a statewide HIV awareness, testing and counselling initiative in colleges following reports that more than 7,000 students and young adults aged 18 to 25 have tested positive for HIV.

The testing camps will be conducted in government, aided and private colleges as part of an effort to encourage early detection and connect those who need support with healthcare services. Officials have clarified that testing will be voluntary and no student will be tested without consent.

Why Karnataka is conducting HIV testing camps

The initiative was recommended by the Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS), which has been working to strengthen HIV prevention and awareness among young adults.

The programme will be implemented with support from the Department of Collegiate Education and Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU). Colleges will organise integrated health camps that include HIV counselling, awareness sessions and testing facilities.

Health officials say early diagnosis is important because many people living with HIV may not know their status. Timely testing allows individuals to access antiretroviral therapy (ART), which can help manage the condition effectively.

Karnataka’s HIV burden

According to data from the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), Karnataka has one of the highest numbers of people living with HIV in India.

The state is estimated to have around 2.6 lakh people living with HIV, while a significant number of people may remain undiagnosed. Officials have stressed that increasing voluntary testing and awareness is essential to identify cases early.

Why youth awareness is a concern

Health authorities have highlighted that young adults, particularly those in the 18 to 35 age group, remain an important focus area for HIV prevention programmes.

Experts say factors such as lack of awareness, limited testing and social stigma around HIV continue to prevent some people from seeking information and medical support.

Officials also emphasise that HIV cannot spread through casual contact such as hugging, sharing food or everyday interactions, and awareness is necessary to reduce misinformation and discrimination.

What is the 95-95-99 HIV target?

The college campaign is linked to KSAPS’ Mobilisation for AIDS Suraksha (MAS) initiative, which aims to support the global HIV response targets.

The goals are:

  • 95% of people living with HIV should know their status.
  • 95% of those diagnosed should receive treatment.
  • 99% of people on treatment should achieve viral suppression.

Officials believe voluntary testing and counselling among students can help improve early detection and treatment access.

Privacy and voluntary testing

The government has stated that students will not be forced to undergo HIV tests. The campaign will also include confidential digital tools that allow individuals to assess their risk and access information about nearby testing centres and counselling services.

Health authorities have urged young people to seek accurate information, avoid stigma and use available healthcare services for prevention and early treatment.