The figures, prompted by Gambegre MLA Mehtab Chandee Sangma’s question, also revealed 749 HIV/AIDS-related deaths over the last 10 years. The brunt fell disproportionately on East Khasi Hills (435 deaths), West Jaintia Hills (123), and East Jaintia Hills (90), with other regions faring better relatively.

Importantly, Hek noted no deaths were directly caused by HIV/AIDS. Opportunistic infections were the culprits in every case, a reminder of the virus’s insidious role in compromising immunity.

The rise in cases alarms authorities, compounded by legal and social constraints from the HIV/AIDS Prevention Act. Patient privacy trumps mandatory testing or treatment, but fear of discrimination keeps many from seeking help.

Undeterred, the administration is launching aggressive interventions. A Rs 25 crore, five-year intensive program, greenlit by CM Conrad Sangma’s cabinet, targets infrastructure upgrades, staffing boosts, and community outreach.

Addressing VPP’s Ardent Basaiahmoiit, Hek highlighted collaborations with NGOs and the formation of an HIV assembly forum. Lawmakers even contributed a dedicated vehicle for patient support.

Optimism prevails: 392 fixed ICTCs and four mobile clinics dot the landscape. ‘Treatment turns HIV into a manageable condition,’ Hek declared, urging stigma-free access to care for thousands leading productive lives.