Community Network for Empowerment (CoNE) observes first anniversary
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 23 2012:
The first anniversary of Community Network for Empowerment (CoNE) was observed today at Lamyanba Shanglen, Palace Compound.
The function was graced by K Moses Chalai, Commissioner of Health and Family Welfare; RK Ibungosana, SP of NCB and Dr N Shyamjai, Deputy Director (TI), MACS as the chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.
A website, www.cone manipur.com was also launched by K Moses Chalai on the occasion.
Delivering his speech, K Moses Chalai said empowerment of people who used drugs and other marginalised communities is the need of the hour.
Stating that drug abusers are people who were misled, Moses Chalai stressed on the need to empower them so that they stay away from drugs and take part in social development process.
Speaking at the occasion, Dr N Shyamjai said though 90 percent of the families in the State are aware of HIV/AIDS and its preventive measures, the population lacks comprehensive knowledge about it.
During the period from March 1998 till date, 41058 male population has been tested positive for HIV while 11025 female and 2730 children have been said to be HIV positive as per the test result.
Among them 6621 male, 4672 female, 852 and 49 transgenders have been administered ART drug.
658 death cases have been registered during the period, he said.
RK Ibungosana said the website would serve to disseminate awareness about HIV/AIDS to far-flung areas.
He appealed the people not to discriminate and stigmatise people living with HIV/AIDS.
President of CoNE, RK Nolinikanta said denial of services, physical abuse and harassment are the problems faced by drug users, PLWHA, sex workers and transgenders.
CoNE is a state-level network of 12 Community-based Organisations (CBOs) representing eight districts of the State.
It has been partnering with various stakeholders like HRA, HRLN, AMBA, AMADA, CORE, KWU, Kripa Society, Care Foundation, Lifeline Foundation, Dedicated People's Union, Manipur Cycle Club, CADA, Christian Network of Positive Women in Manipur, All Manipur Nupi Manbi Association and SAATHII.