Telangana will introduce a QR code-based HIV risk self-assessment facility from August 15, allowing residents to privately assess their risk by scanning a code and answering seven questions. The initiative is part of an expanded digital awareness campaign being implemented by the Telangana State AIDS Control Society (TGSACS).
The QR codes will be placed at public places, hospitals, offices and other locations. After scanning the code, users can complete the self-assessment without immediately approaching a healthcare worker and receive information about their risk and available services.
The initiative is being rolled out alongside a two-month Information, Education and Communication campaign on HIV/AIDS and Syphilis. The campaign, launched at HMDA Grounds on August 12, will continue across Telangana until October 12, with a focus on increasing awareness, encouraging voluntary testing and addressing misconceptions about HIV.
The digital facility is also intended to connect people with further support, including the 1097 HIV/AIDS toll-free helpline, free testing facilities, counselling services and nearby NGO or community service centres.
According to the programme document cited in the report, Telangana improved its position in the national HIV programme implementation scorecard from 31st among states and union territories in 2022-23 to fifth in 2025-26. As of July 2026, 87.2 per cent of estimated people living with HIV in the state were aware of their status, while all diagnosed people were receiving antiretroviral therapy. Among those tested for viral load, 96.1 per cent had achieved viral suppression.
The campaign launch included rallies involving more than 50 bikes and 25 autos, followed by a walkathon with more than 1,600 participants and a Mobile Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres Van rally. Participants displayed QR codes and HIV/AIDS awareness messages.
Minister Ponnam Prabhakar said that removing misconceptions about HIV and AIDS and creating awareness among the public is a social responsibility. TGSACS Project Director K. Vidyasagar also highlighted the state’s progress in HIV prevention, testing and treatment.
Telangana currently has 127 Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres, 11 Mobile ICTCs, 22 ART centres, 11 ART centres under public-private partnership, 48 designated STI/RTI clinics and 30 Sampoorna Suraksha Kendras.
