Source: The Imphal Free Press
Imphal, December 01:
Stigma and discrimination continue to be the greatest challenges for the prevention of and control efforts in the country.
We have to ensure the protection of human rights of the vulnerable and also the infected.
Non-discrimination at work places and care and support for the infected will go a long way in mitigating the impact of HIV/AIDS.
This was stated by the Governor, Ved Marwah, while addressing a function of the World AIDS Day observance at the 1st MR complex today under the aegis of Manipur AIDS Control Society, MACS.
The function was also attended by commissioner of health, Henry K Heni, and MACS project director Dr Khomdon Lisham.
The Governor also observed that health being the starting point of all human welfare, the strength of a nation depends entirely upon the health and strength of its people.
�Today�, he sad, �health and the future of our young people is at stake under the threat of rapidly expanding global AIDS pandemic, which is sweeping right across the world�.
Giving an alarming statistical detail of HIV infections in the nation, Governor Ved Marwah noted that there is, however, a strong commitment at the national and state levels to combat AIDS.
This commitment, he said, needs to be broadened by forging effective partnerships between governments, political parties, students, youth groups, religious and community leaders and NGOs.
The function was preceded by a mass rally from Manipur College ground, participated by thousands of people of all sections including scouts and NGO volunteers and from various parts of the state.
Besides various competitions, photo exhibitions carrying messages in English, Manipuri, Hmar, Anal, Mao, Kabui, Tangkhul, Paite and Thadou, marked the highlights of the function.
The World AIDS Day was also observed jointly at the MDU hall, Yaiskul, by the New Generation, MNP+, ICHE, WORC, IMA, SODAM and ICOHFDRUP.