India’s HIV epidemic has come a long way from the rapid expansion seen in the 1990s and early 2000s, but the recent rise in new infections highlights that HIV transmission has not been eliminated. After reaching 57,549 new HIV infections in 2020 , the number rose to 62,970 in 2021, 66,410 in 2022 and 68,451 in 2023, before easing to 64,470 in 2024 . While this remains nearly 49% below the 2010 level of about 1.25 lakh new infections, the recent rise is a reminder that HIV transmission continues.

AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. Without effective treatment, it weakens the immune system and leaves people vulnerable to serious infections, including tuberculosis and hepatitis, as well as some cancers. Against this backdrop, an expert panel under the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has recommended waiving local Phase III clinical trials and bioequivalence…