NEW DELHI: With the target to reverse the tide of HIV epidemic in the country by 2011, the third phase of the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP-III) is being launched.

The programme will be launched by Union Health Minister Ambumani Ramadoss here. "The programme aims to reduce new infections in all categories and prevent spread of HIV from High Risk Groups (HRG) to the general population," a release said.

The NACP-III envisages spending of Rs 11,585 crore. "The Centre will spend Rs 8,023 crore, with the rest being mobilised from private foundations," it said. The NACP-III will ensure access to a package of prevention and care services to an estimated four million people in HRG category that includes female sex workers, gays and drug users, it said.

It will also ensure that 90 per cent of the 10 million units of blood required is generated through voluntary blood donation. "Forty-two million tests will be conducted to identify those infected with HIV for providing early care and treatment to over 3.5 lakh AIDS patients," the release said.

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