Samraksha developed a comprehensive range of services to meet the needs of people living with HIV and their families — from the point of diagnosis through to terminal care. These included:

• Counselling and testing
• Treatment for opportunistic infections and side effects of medication
• Palliative care to reduce pain and distress in the advanced stages of illness

Our approach went beyond medical needs, addressing the emotional and psychosocial challenges of individuals and families coping with HIV. Pioneering initiatives included one of the first care centres in Bangalore, a rural care centre in Kustagi (North Karnataka), and the integration of HIV services into outpatient clinics in hospitals.

Over 16,000 people benefited from these services over a period of 26 years. This programme saw the launch of pioneering initiatives, many of which have since become part of India’s national HIV care and support programme.