The AIDS Prevention Society, based at the Monaliv Clinic & AIDS Research Centre in Guwahati marked World AIDS Day 2025 on Monday with a call to protect HIV services and support community-led action. The event was led by Dr. S. I. Ahmed, Chairman and Medical Director of the Society.
This year’s theme, “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response,” focuses on how funding cuts, inequalities, and social stigma are affecting HIV programmes. The theme also highlights the important role played by communities in reaching people living with HIV, building trust, and ensuring that services continue even during difficult times.
Dr. Ahmed said World AIDS Day is a time to show support to people living with HIV and remember those who died from AIDS-related illnesses. He stressed that community-led groups remain at the centre of the HIV response and must be strengthened. 
During the programme, the Society shared data showing that Assam, though a low-prevalence state, is facing a steady rise in HIV cases. Assam’s HIV prevalence is 0.08%, compared to the national average of 0.20%, but the state has an estimated 35,000 or more people living with HIV. Injecting drug use now accounts for about 65% of new cases in recent years, marking a major shift in the pattern of infections.
In 2023–24, the state detected 7,274 new cases, while recent data up to November 2025 shows 19,030 general clients and 1,811 pregnant women testing positive.
Speakers also pointed out that the Northeast continues to have the highest HIV prevalence in India, with Mizoram, Nagaland, and Manipur topping the list.
Dr. Ahmed said that strong political and financial commitment is needed to support community groups and ensure the state stays on track to help end AIDS by 2030.
