PUNE — India’s decentralized strategy to combat the HIV epidemic is set for a major reinforcement as the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) prepares to host the next “Suraksha Sankalp Karyashala” (Security Pledge Workshop) in Pune on April 7, 2026. This initiative marks a pivotal shift toward a district-led response, positioning local administrations as the frontline in the nation’s goal to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
Strategic Focus on Priority Districts
Under the broader framework of Mission AIDS Suraksha, NACO has identified 219 high-priority districts across India requiring intensified action.
- Maharashtra’s Role: As a priority state with an HIV prevalence of 0.29% and nearly 4 lakh people living with HIV (PLHIV), Maharashtra has 22 districts selected for this focused approach.
- Key Districts: These include Pune , Mumbai (Suburban), Thane, Nagpur, Nashik and Solapur, among others.
The Pune Workshop: Stakeholders and Objectives
Led by Dr. Rakesh Gupta of NACO, the workshop brings together top health officials, including Maharashtra’s Principal Secretary of Public Health, Mission Director for NHM, and MSACS Project Director. The meeting gathers district leadership—CEOs, Civil Surgeons, and AIDS Control Officers—to drive collective, data-driven action.
Core Implementation Strategies
The initiative focuses on bridging gaps in the care continuum by strengthening four key areas:
- Grassroots Access: Enhancing local prevention and testing services.
- Treatment Retention: Securing patient adherence to ART.
- Viral Suppression: Monitoring outcomes for better health results.
- Stigma Reduction: Ensuring non-discriminatory care.
