"The clinical trials of the first vaccine, which is specific for HIV strains prevalent in the country, are likely to begin in January," Ramadoss said at the 'National Consultation on Nutritional Security in the Prevention, Management and Treatment of TB and HIV/AIDS'.

In India, several subtypes of HIV-1 virus A, B, C and D have been detected, with subtype-C strains being the most prevalent.

The minister said clinical trial of another HIV vaccine was likely to begin in April.

Ramadoss said efforts were being made to spread awareness about the disease and its transmission across the country.

"We are on track. The entire population should have heard of HIV/AIDS in the next six months," he said.

The minister also said a new legislation was being drafted to prevent discrimination against HIV positive people.

-Indo-Asian News Service