World AIDS Day 2025 is a globally observed day dedicated to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS. It is celebrated to show support for those living with the virus and commemorate individuals who have died due to AIDS-related illnesses. Established by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1988, this day serves as a crucial reminder to unite against the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS and advocate for prevention, treatment, and support.

When is World AIDS Day 2025

World AIDS Day is observed every year on December 1st to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS. In 2025, World AIDS Day will be celebrated on Monday, December 1. This day honors those who have lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses and encourages global efforts to fight the spread of HIV. It serves as a reminder to promote education, prevention, and support for people living with HIV worldwide.​

World AIDS Day 2025 Highlights

On December 01, WHO is set to join with communities and patterns to commemorate World AIDS Day 2025 with the “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response” theme. It provides an opportunity to educate the public about the realities of HIV/AIDS and foster collective responsibility for combating the epidemic. Here is the overview of World AIDS Day 2025:

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

World AIDS Day 2025 Theme

The theme for World AIDS Day 2025 is “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response”. This theme emphasizes the importance of health as a fundamental human right and calls for global solidarity, awareness, and action against HIV/AIDS. It encourages communities to advocate for the rights of people living with or affected by HIV, ensuring access to healthcare and reducing stigma and discrimination.

What is AIDS?

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the final stage of HIV infection, characterized by a severely weakened immune system, making the body vulnerable to life-threatening infections and cancers.

What is HIV Full Form?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the virus that causes AIDS by attacking the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which are critical for fighting infections.

Difference Between HIV and AIDS

Understanding the distinction between HIV and AIDS is crucial in addressing the challenges associated with these conditions. Below is a detailed comparison of differences between HIV and AIDS:

HIV Cases in India 2025

In 2025, India has made significant progress in controlling HIV, with over 2.5 million people living with HIV. New HIV infections have decreased by nearly 49%, and AIDS-related deaths have dropped by more than 80% since 2010. This improvement is attributed to expanded HIV testing, increased access to antiretroviral therapy, and efforts to reduce mother-to-child transmission. India’s National AIDS Control Programme continues to lead these efforts, focusing on awareness, treatment, and eliminating stigma associated with HIV.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books

Visit PW Store

HIV/AIDS Control Programme in India

India has implemented robust policies under the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) to combat HIV/AIDS:

1. National AIDS Control Programme (NACP): This aims to reduce new infections, ensure safe blood transfusion practices, and provide free antiretroviral therapy (ART).
2. Awareness Campaigns: Nationwide initiatives to educate people about HIV prevention, testing, and treatment.
3. Targeted Interventions: Focus on high-risk groups, including sex workers, injecting drug users, and transgender individuals.
4. HIV Counselling and Testing Services (HCTS): Established to promote early detection and prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
5. HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017: It is a law that aims to protect the rights of individuals living with HIV by prohibiting discrimination in employment, healthcare, and education. 

Ready to boost your UPSC 2026 preparation? Join PW’s UPSC online courses today!

DOWNLOAD PDF