Awareness must for HIV/AIDS-free status: Dr Lokeshwar
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 01 2024: As elsewhere in the world, the 37th World AIDS Day was jointly observed by CDC, Path, MACS, PEPFAR, Kripa Society, SASO, CoNE, MNP+, Care Foundation and ADUM at Manipur Dramatic Union (MDU) hall, Yaiskul Police Lane here on Sunday.

Observed under the theme "Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!", the observance was attended by JNIMS MS Dr Kh Lokeshwar as chief guest, MACS CSC deputy director Dr W Joyson, MACS CST deputy director Dr S Jupiter, MACS BSD & IEC deputy director Dr N Dipabali, MACS AI deputy Dr Teresa H, MACS Store deputy director Dr Bima H as guests of honour and MNP+ general secretary Salam Udita Devi as president.

In his speech, Dr Lokeshwar said that the day is being observed to show solidarity to HIV-afflicted persons and increase awareness to end discrimination against those living with HIV/AIDS.

He explained the theme of this year's observance, stating the right to health is also one of the basic human rights, and the aim is to provide the necessary treatment as part of this right.

Informing that around 30 million people in the world are afflicted with HIV, he mentioned WHO's goal to eliminate HIV/AIDS from the world by 2030 as one of its sustainable goals.

As part of this goal, the target is to detect and treat at least 95 per cent of the afflicted or positive cases to prevent any further transmission.

NGOs and stake holders need to work together in this regard, he asserted.

Stating that HIV has no vaccine, Dr Lokeshwar said that the infection is controlled by medications.

Since there is no complete care, there is a need for increased awareness about HIV/AIDS, preventing stigma, support of stake holders and the public, and for the positive persons not to hide their conditions.

Timely administration of the medication will prevent transmission of the virus to the next generation, thereby securing the right to health for all, he remarked.

Meanwhile, Overcomers along with Manipur State AIDS Control Society jointly observed the World AIDS Day 2024 at Kangla Western Gate, Imphal West under the same theme on Sunday.

The observance was marked by a candle light memorial to honour AIDS victims, and attended by more than 200 people from all walks of life.

The observance was led by Manipur State AIDS Control Society project director Haobam Rosita, and Social Welfare director Ngangom Uttam, Mr South Asia 2012 & MACS former brand ambassador Pradipkumar Khundrakpam, folk singer Benita Laishram, and deputy directors of MACS and its staff.

It was also attended by government officials, media persons, school teachers, sport figures, students, artistes, police personnel, bilateral partners of MACS and NACO, activists, CSOs and local clubs and Meira Paibis.

Coalition Against Drugs and Alcohol (CADA) also observed the World AIDS Day at its office in Pureiromba Khongnang Makhong on Sunday.

The observance was attended by CADA secretary general Geetchandra Mangang, Leimarol Lamjingkon (LEIMAKON) president MC Rita, All Manipur Women's Social Reformation and Development Samaj (Nupi Samaj) president Thokchom Ramani, Apunba Manipur Kanba Ima Lup (AMKIL) president Lourembam Nganbi, All Manipur Tammi-Chingmi Apunba Nupi Lup (Tammi-Chingmi) president Yambem Momon and CADA president Hijam Priyokuamr as presidium members.

The World AIDS Day was also observed at Wangoi Community Health Centre (CHC) in the presence of Mayai Lambi College principal RK Nimai, Way to Recovery Home project director Chongtham Bakimchandra and CHC MO in-charge Dr N Sushila and gynaecologist Dr Tampha among others.

Comment