Raja Syed Rather
Srinagar, Nov 22: Jammu and Kashmir has recorded 2,071 new HIV cases and 66 deaths between 2019 and June 2025, a Right to Information (RTI) query has revealed. The data was shared by the J&K AIDS Control Society (JKACS) in response to the RTI.
As per documents, new HIV cases stood at 361 in 2019–20, 206 in 2020–21, 272 in 2021–22, 374 in 2022–23, 338 in 2023–24, 403 in 2024–25, and 117 fresh cases between April and June 2025. Most deaths were reported among patients receiving Antiretroviral Therapy (ART).
The RTI further states that over Rs 10 crore has been allocated to JKACS through the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) from 2020–21 to June 2025. The expenditure of the Society has seen a consistent rise — from Rs 1,177.99 lakh in 2020–21 to Rs 2,819.09 lakh in 2024–25.
Meanwhile, NGOs working under JKACS for AIDS prevention and awareness drives received Rs 24 crore+ during the same period. Annual allocations increased from Rs 293.57 lakh in 2020–21 to Rs 610.96 lakh in 2024–25, with officials saying most of the funds were utilized.
According to the RTI, JKACS currently operates 48 centres across J&K, including 32 Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTCs), 2 State Reference Laboratories, 6 Opioid Substitution Therapy centres, 3 ART centres, and 5 STI clinics. Over 140 personnel, including counsellors, technicians and nurses, are deployed across the Union Territory.
Officials said the budgetary support to JKACS has grown from Rs 82.55 lakh in 2019–20 to Rs 205.20 lakh in 2024–25, covering awareness initiatives, treatment support and coordination with NGOs.
However, despite increased funding and outreach programmes, the RTI data indicates a sustained rise in HIV cases. Experts warn that the trend highlights the need for stronger community education and targeted interventions for high-risk groups.
