Imphal, May 18: Asking for initiation of specific measures to tackle with side-effects caused by ART (Anti Retroviral Therapy), USER Manipur and AMADA have sought attention of the authority concerned towards several other demands.

Along with observation of the 25th International AIDS Candle Light Memorial Day, USER Manipur and AMADA pointed out several loopholes and inadequacies in the State's policy and infrastructure for combating HIV/AIDS.

Some of the demands raised by the two bodies include provision of second ART line, upgradation of CD4 counting machines installed in Government hospitals, installation of drug resistance test machine for persons undergoing ART treatment, procuring of polymerised chain reaction machine and provision of quality drugs for opportunistic infection (OI).

The two bodies also asked for provision of nutrition and medical support to the needy patients, proper monitoring of the funds sanctioned for combating HIV/AIDS, separate policy for children and women affected by HIV/AIDS and recruitment of doctors having thorough knowledge of ART.

In connection with the International Candle Light Memorial Day, AMADA and USER Manipur lit candles in their respective offices in memory of those who have fallen victim to HIV.

The International AIDS Candle Light Memorial Day was also observed by Echema (Empowerment of Community for Human Education and Multitude Advancement) at Lamphel Super Market and Nirvana Foundation at Moirangkhom Bazar.

Kripa Society also observed the day at its three drop-in-centres at RIMS Road, Takhel Leikai and Singjamei.

Comment