What this scheme offers
Running since 1992 and now in its fifth phase, NACP is implemented by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) and covers free HIV testing at Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTCs) located at government hospitals and health facilities nationwide, with pre- and post-test counselling and complete confidentiality. Anyone testing positive is linked to free, lifelong Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) at an ART Centre, which keeps the virus suppressed and allows people living with HIV to lead a normal lifespan. The programme also runs targeted prevention interventions for high-risk groups, prevention of parent-to-child transmission services for pregnant women, blood safety programmes, and condom promotion and awareness campaigns. Related programmes support co-infections, particularly TB-HIV, given the significant overlap between the two.
Who is eligible
- Anyone in India — testing and treatment are universal, with no income, category, or citizenship-status barrier for testing.
- Particular outreach exists for high-risk groups, pregnant women (for prevention of transmission to the child), and TB patients.
- Testing is entirely voluntary and confidential — you cannot be tested without consent, except in specific medical circumstances.
Documents required
- None required for testing — you can walk in anonymously at most ICTCs if you prefer
- Basic identification helps for ART registration and ongoing care continuity, but shouldn't block access to initial testing
How to access testing and treatment
- Visit any Integrated Counselling and Testing Centre (ICTC), typically located at government hospitals, primary health centres, and some private facilities.
- You'll receive pre-test counselling explaining the process, followed by a free, confidential HIV test.
- Results come with post-test counselling regardless of outcome, including guidance on prevention if the result is negative.
- If positive, you're registered at the nearest ART Centre for lifelong free antiretroviral therapy and ongoing monitoring.
- For location of your nearest ICTC or ART Centre, call the NACO helpline or check naco.gov.in.
- Pregnant women should ask specifically about Prevention of Parent-to-Child Transmission (PPTCT) services during antenatal visits.