International AIDS Candle Light Memorial Day widely observed
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, May 18 2014 :
As observed in other parts of the world, the 31st International AIDS Candle Light Memorial Day was observed under the theme "Let's Keep the Light on HIV" by various NGOs in the State today remembering those who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS and to spread mass awareness on stopping the virus from spreading further.
The Memorial Day was observed by Manipur Network of Positive People (MNP+) at its Secretariat Office at Yaiskul Hiruhanba Leikai here with Joint Director of Manipur State AIDS Control Society (MACS) Abhiram Mongjam as Chief Guest and Treasurer of MNP+ L Deben as President.
Speaking on the occasion, Abhiram Mongjam said that everyone must join hands to achieve the global target of putting HIV/AIDS to zero.
However, the global political and economic chaos may become a hindrance in the struggle against HIV/AIDS.
In such critical scenario, the theme "Let's Keep the Light on HIV" becomes quite relevant for the people to move forward to fight the menace of HIV/AIDS.
The International AIDS Candle Light Memorial Day is observed every year to commemorate the loved ones who have lost their lives due to HIV, show solidarity to people living with HIV, raise awareness around HIV and reduced HIV related stigma and discrimination in the society, Abhiram noted.
The International AIDS Candle Light Memorial Day was also observed by Nirvana Foundation at its training hall located at Khurai Lamlong Bazar here with participation by hundreds of invitees including people living with HIV/AIDS.
Sobhana Sorokhaibam and Laishram Jonita graced as chief guest and president respectively of the the function.
The observance was marked by floral tributes, candle lighting, presentation of gifts to the people living with HIV/AIDS as a token of love and psychological support to wellbeing and positive living.
Meanwhile, remembering lives lost to HIV/AIDS and to spread public awareness on HIV/AIDS, Christian Network of Positive Women, Manipur in association with Self Support Group (SSG) conducted the 31st International AIDS Candle Light Memorial Service at the conference hall of Youth Hostel, Khuman Lampak here today.
Around 80 people participated in the programme which was conducted with Rebati Raman, Sr Project Manager of CDS; Babycha Mangsatabam, Consultant of SSG and Dhanabir Soraisam, Co-ordinator of NEDF as chief guest, functional president and guest of honour respectively.
CNPW also observed the Candlelight Memorial programme under the theme of "Lets keep the light on HIV: Many lights for human rights" at MBC Centre Church where many Church members attended.
Manipur Network of Positive People (MNP+) Thoubal also joined the global observance by organising a function at its office today, a release of the Network stated.