Vikarabad Wins National ‘Saksham’ Honour for HIV/AIDS Control

Vikarabad district has earned national recognition for its exceptional performance in HIV/AIDS prevention, diagnosis, treatment and patient care , receiving the prestigious 'Saksham' Appreciation Certificate from the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) . The district is among just 70 districts across India to achieve this distinction by successfully meeting stringent national benchmarks under the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) .

The recognition highlights Vikarabad's sustained efforts in strengthening HIV services and advancing the 95-95-95 targets, a global strategy endorsed by UNAIDS to end the AIDS epidemic as a public health threat by 2030 . The targets aim to ensure that 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those diagnosed receive sustained Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), and 95% of patients on treatment achieve viral suppression , significantly reducing new infections and improving life expectancy.

Officials credited the achievement to the leadership of District Collector Deepak Tiwari and the coordinated efforts of District Medical and Health Officer Dr. K. Sudhakar Lal , along with doctors, counsellors and frontline healthcare workers. As part of the programme, the district has identified 4,536 people living with HIV , with more than 95% diagnosed at an early stage and promptly enrolled in Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) .

Health authorities said the district's success stems from the effective implementation of the 'Test and Treat' approach, under which treatment begins immediately after an individual tests positive for HIV, regardless of disease stage. Regular counselling sessions , uninterrupted availability of ART medicines , and continuous patient follow-up have helped improve treatment adherence and long-term health outcomes.

Medical experts noted that consistent ART suppresses the viral load to undetectable levels, allowing people living with HIV to lead healthy and productive lives while drastically reducing the risk of transmitting the virus. This is in line with the globally recognised "Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U)" principle, which has transformed HIV management and prevention strategies worldwide.

The district administration also acknowledged the contributions of the Telangana State AIDS Control Society (TSACS) , NACO , ART Centres , Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTCs) , ASHA workers , laboratory staff and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) , whose coordinated efforts played a crucial role in securing the national honour.

Appealing to the public, Collector Deepak Tiwari urged people to overcome the stigma, myths and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS. He encouraged anyone with suspected exposure or concerns to undergo free HIV testing at the nearest government hospital or ICTC , stressing that early diagnosis, timely treatment and regular medication remain the most effective ways to control the infection and prevent its spread.

The Collector also thanked the Chief Minister , the State Health Minister , the Speaker , public representatives and healthcare personnel for their support in helping Vikarabad achieve this significant national milestone, describing the award as a testament to the district's commitment to delivering quality public healthcare and advancing India's fight against HIV/AIDS.