Chandigarh fast-tracks progress towards 95-95-95 HIV targets

The 33rd governing body meeting of the Chandigarh State AIDS Control Society (CSACS) was held Tuesday under the chairmanship of Ajay Chagti, Secretary, Health, Chandigarh. The meeting reviewed Chandigarh’s progress in HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care. It reaffirmed the city’s commitment to achieving the 95-95-95 targets, ensuring that 95% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) know their status, 95% of those diagnosed are on sustained treatment, and 95% of those on treatment achieve viral suppression.

Over 5,300 PLHIV in Chandigarh are currently receiving free Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) along with counselling and adherence support. Chandigarh has successfully achieved the first and third 95 targets, meaning that most PLHIV know their status and the majority on treatment have achieved viral suppression. Efforts are now focused on strengthening the second 95 by ensuring that every diagnosed individual remains on sustained treatment. A special Lost-to-Follow-Up (LTFU) track-back campaign has been launched to trace and re-engage patients who have discontinued treatment.

Mass awareness has helped spread messages of prevention and stigma reduction, and integrated health camps have been organised across Chandigarh, offering free screening for HIV, Hepatitis B & C, Syphilis, and Tuberculosis. Multiple community mobilisation activities are being implemented to ensure universal access to prevention and care information. “Chandigarh is committed to achieving the 95-95-95 targets and ensuring equitable access to HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services. Community participation and awareness remain our most powerful tools in building a healthier, stigma-free society,” said Chagti.