In a strange and shocking development, fear of deadly HIV infections are resulting in condom shortage across India. Officials of government’s AIDS control programme who are distributing free condoms to create awareness among people about HIV are now facing severe condom shortage.
According to reports more than six states are facing shortage of condoms. Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand where HIV is prevalent is facing condom shortage for over 8 months.
Even Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan too are experiencing supply crisis due to delays in procurement owing to bureaucratic system prevalent.
Target Intervention Groups, which are distributing condoms wrote letters urgently seeking supplies to the State AIDS Prevention and Control Society (SACS). The problem is brought to the notice of Union Health Ministry.
This prompted health secretary to meet officials from National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO). These are worrying signals as third largest population affected with HIV is present in India.