The United Nations envisions a world without AIDS, and it is aiming to make it a reality by eradicating the epidemic by 2030.
“India can achieve the status of ‘AIDS-free nation’ by 2030 provided there is political will, allocation of adequate resources to fight the epidemic, introduction of legal reforms and involvement of the community,” said J.V.R. Prasada Rao, UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on HIV/AIDS for Asia-Pacific.
Speaking to The Hindu on Thursday, Mr. Rao said: “The number of fresh infections has come down to less than 50 per cent compared to 2000. Andhra Pradesh is also doing well in AIDS control drive. We need to shift focus to vulnerable population like sex workers, transgenders and MSMs.” He, however, added that the instance of HIV was on the rise among risk groups. “Treatment should be focused on these groups. Testing facilities should be augmented,” Mr. Rao.
The diminishing external aid that pour in from all directions is yet another challenge, he admitted. “Some aid agencies have completely withdrawn funding precisely because they think that middle income nations like India can fund themselves,” Mr. Rao said. The government, according to him, should not wait for others to fund projects and instead should be ready with 100 per cent funding of the projects. Mr. Rao favoured striking down of Section 377 of the IPC which criminalises homosexuality. “The gay community has the right to health. It is a fundamental right. When we can give it to criminals in jails, why not these people? Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been abolishing a number of outdated laws. Striking down this law is the need of the hour,” he said.
On the controversy surrounding the proposal to legalise prostitution, Mr. Rao said: “India is not ready for it. Our socio-cultural background doesn’t allow such a big leap. Instead, we should opt for decriminalisation. You should distinguish between child-trafficking and prostitution.”
Mr. Rao said Andhra Pradesh and Telangana should prioritise the social health sector. On the future scenario, he maintained that a cure or a vaccine could be a game-changer. “But, I don’t see that happening at least in the next six to seven years,” he added.
Citing examples of countries like Thailand and Cambodia where AIDS has been integrated in the general health care system, Mr. Rao said the Indian government should follow suit “perhaps in a phased manner”.
Health as a priority should not be left out, he said, warning: “If you neglect it now, there could be a resurgence.”