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Karnataka Colleges to Host Mandatory HIV Testing for Students
27 Jul
Summary
- Karnataka ranks third nationally in HIV-infected individuals.
- HIV infection is rapidly spreading among youth aged 18-35.
- A new QR code tool helps students assess HIV risk confidentially.
Karnataka is implementing a statewide Integrated Health Camp (IHC) initiative for HIV testing and counselling across all engineering and degree colleges. This proactive measure by the Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS), in collaboration with Visvesvaraya Technological University and the Collegiate Education Department, aims to combat a growing HIV infection rate, particularly among the youth.
The state is third in India for HIV-infected individuals, with a significant portion unaware of their status. Data from 2023-24 to 2025-26 indicates a dramatic increase in infections among those aged 18 to 35, with over 7,000 young people aged 18-25 recently diagnosed.
To achieve the 'First 95' target—ensuring 95% of people know their HIV status—a QR code-based 'HIV Self-Risk Assessment Tool' has been developed. This digital platform promotes self-awareness and confidential testing among students, encouraging timely intervention and epidemic control.
The initiative aligns with national directives from the University Grant Commission and the Union Education Ministry to raise HIV awareness in educational institutions. The broader goal is to achieve the 95-95-99 targets, focusing on awareness, treatment linkage, and viral spread control.
