Nagaland has made self-risk assessment (SRA) and HIV testing available at people’s doorsteps as part of the nationwide IEC Campaign 3.0.
The nationwide Intensified Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Campaign 3.0 has spread its wings following its launch on August 12, coinciding with International Youth Day. The two-month-long campaign aims to scale up awareness of HIV, AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), as well as prevention and testing, at the grassroots level through a localised and targeted approach. The Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) is also implementing the campaign across the state, but with a difference. With the intention of turning mere awareness into action, it is not only taking the message directly to villages, educational institutions and homes across the state, but also making self-risk assessment (SRA), HIV testing and other services available at people’s doorsteps. It has been reported that dozens of villages, colleges and schools across the state have been covered over the past three weeks, with many people coming forward for HIV testing and SRA, which is a confidential screening process designed to assess an individual’s risk of HIV and STIs, without replacing a physical diagnosis. Given that years of awareness programmes have failed to produce the expected results, with the state’s adult HIV prevalence rate remaining at 1.37%—far exceeding the national average of 0.20% and the second-highest in the country—it has become clear that what worked in other states may not necessarily work in Nagaland. The authorities concerned have therefore done well by changing the strategy—taking the campaign to people’s doorsteps, particularly in view of the risk of stigmatisation in a close-knit society like ours. By bringing information, screening and testing closer to communities, the more personalised outreach strategy has the potential to bridge the gap between awareness and action.
To reduce the risk of HIV transmission, prevention, early diagnosis and easy access to treatment—including antiretroviral therapy (ART)—remain among the most effective measures. However, despite aggressive awareness campaigns, many people remain hesitant to get tested at healthcare centres due to the fear of social stigma and barriers to accessibility. Mizoram, which has the highest adult HIV prevalence rate in India, faced a similar challenge until its HIV self-testing (HIVST) initiative reportedly proved to be a game-changer. While more than 100 countries have permitted HIV self-testing, India does not have a national policy allowing it.
Mizoram, however, has officially enabled individuals to test themselves in the privacy of their homes using easy-to-use kits, effectively addressing the twin challenges of delayed diagnosis and limited access to testing. Nagaland can also consider adopting a similar policy to expand HIV testing, particularly among people who may otherwise be reluctant or unable to visit healthcare facilities. Expanding access to testing is crucial not only for early diagnosis and timely treatment, but also for preventing further transmission of the virus. What has worked in Mizoram could also work in Nagaland, given the similarities in their social structure, community environment and lifestyle.