HIVCases – Karnataka Reports Continued Rise in HIV Infections Among MSM Community
HIVCases – Karnataka has recorded a notable increase in HIV-positive cases among men who have sex with men (MSM) over the past three years, according to figures released by the Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS). The data indicates a consistent upward trend, with reported cases rising from 166 during 2023-24 to 362 in 2024-25, and further increasing to 412 in 2025-26.
Growth in Targeted Health Programme Participation
Alongside the increase in reported infections, the number of MSM individuals enrolled in targeted intervention programmes has also expanded significantly. KSAPS data shows that registrations grew from 44,581 in 2023-24 to 62,664 in 2024-25, reaching 66,606 in 2025-26. Most participants belonged to the 26-35 age group, while individuals aged 18-25 represented the second-largest segment.
These intervention programmes are designed to reduce the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections through awareness campaigns, preventive healthcare services, and regular screening initiatives.
Awareness Gaps Remain a Major Challenge
Officials say misinformation and inadequate understanding of sexual health continue to contribute to the growing concern. Padma Basavanthappa, Project Director of KSAPS, noted that many people remain unaware of safe sexual practices and the importance of routine HIV testing.
She explained that the widespread use of digital dating platforms has made it easier for people to establish new connections, making consistent awareness campaigns more important than ever. According to her, long-term outreach efforts are necessary to ensure that vulnerable groups receive reliable health information and access to preventive services.
Basavanthappa also stated that Karnataka records approximately 12,000 to 13,000 HIV-positive cases annually across all population categories, including MSM.
NGOs Strengthen Prevention and Support Networks
Non-governmental organisations continue to play a central role in the state’s HIV prevention strategy. Several NGOs work closely with key populations such as MSM individuals, transgender persons, female sex workers, migrant workers, and truck drivers.
According to KSAPS, partner organisations are encouraged to expand their outreach efforts by increasing programme participation by around 25 percent each year. These groups provide essential services, including condom distribution, counselling on safe sexual practices, routine health assessments, and assistance in accessing government welfare and social security schemes.
Calls for Modernised Awareness Campaigns
Experts and community representatives believe awareness initiatives must evolve to match changing communication habits, particularly among younger generations.
Manohar Elavarthi, State Committee Member of the Movement for Gender and Sexual Pluralism, said public health campaigns should focus on reaching young people through the digital platforms they use regularly. He stressed that effective engagement is more productive than criticism when addressing health-related concerns among youth.
Importance of Early Testing and Treatment
Health authorities have also highlighted the need for regular HIV testing. Hanumantha Rayappa, Deputy Director of Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTC), pointed out that many people may carry the virus without noticing symptoms during the early stages of infection.
He encouraged residents to make use of free HIV testing facilities available through ICTCs across Karnataka. He also highlighted the availability of free Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) services at government hospitals and recommended the use of the Break Free App to access information and support related to HIV prevention and treatment.