Healthcare / HIV Surge among Youth Prompts Mandatory Counselling in Karnataka Colleges

Bengaluru, Jul 30: Karnataka is witnessing a worrying surge in HIV infections, particularly among young people aged 18 to 35. Concerned by the sharp rise, the state government has announced a major initiative to introduce mandatory HIV screening and counselling services across all government, aided, and private colleges.

According to data from the Health Department, HIV infections in the 18-35 age group have risen dramatically in just two years. In 2023-24, the number of cases stood at 44,500, which has now increased to 66,600 in 2025-26 — a rise of more than 50%.

Alarmingly, over 7,000 college students aged between 18 and 25 have recently tested positive. Experts believe that timely awareness, regular testing, and proper counselling are crucial to controlling the spread of the infection.

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To address the crisis, Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) has directed all affiliated engineering colleges to organize integrated health camps. These camps will provide HIV screening, awareness sessions, and counselling services. VTU has assured students that their identities and medical reports will remain confidential to prevent stigma or embarrassment.

The initiative is part of the Mobilization for AIDS Security (MAS) programme, which also aims to raise awareness about other serious infections such as Hepatitis B and syphilis. The health camps will be conducted in collaboration with district AIDS control officers, ensuring that students receive not only testing but also professional counselling and guidance.

Importantly, HIV testing will remain voluntary, with student consent mandatory before any screening. VTU Vice-Chancellor S. Vidyashankar emphasized that the program is highly sensitive and that strict instructions have been issued to colleges to respect student privacy.

In a novel step, the Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS) has introduced a QR code-based HIV self-risk assessment tool. Students can scan the code to evaluate their risk levels based on lifestyle and other factors. Colleges have been instructed to display these QR codes prominently on campus to encourage maximum participation.

Beyond testing, students will also receive information about confidential counselling and treatment options. The programme aims to reduce social stigma and fear associated with HIV while promoting early detection and care. KSAPS has planned the campaign to run in multiple phases over eight months starting July 2026.

Colleges will be required to submit detailed reports of the health camps to VTU, enabling authorities to monitor progress and refine strategies. In the initial two months, orientation programmes and awareness drives will be conducted, followed by cultural activities such as flash mobs, plays, and youth-focused campaigns on August 12 (Youth Day) to spread awareness and dispel myths about HIV.

With infections rising rapidly among Karnataka’s youth, the government hopes this multi-pronged approach will help curb the spread of HIV and safeguard the health of future generations.