National AIDS Control Program Implements Rigorous Campaign to Combat HIV/AIDS in India
New Delhi, India – The National AIDS Control Program (NACP) in India has launched an intensive campaign to fight against HIV/AIDS, with a focus on creating widespread awareness about the disease. The program was inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, SP Singh Baghel, during a review meeting held in Agra.
During the event, Baghel emphasized the need to address the stigma faced by HIV/AIDS patients. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to strengthen the response to HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. Baghel stressed the importance of implementing a comprehensive multi-media campaign to raise awareness across the nation.
Several measures have already been put into action as part of the campaign. These include a toll-free helpline for HIV/AIDS information, free lifetime ART services, antiretroviral (ARV) medication for people living with HIV, free adherence counseling, and diagnostic and monitoring services. Baghel also highlighted the significance of reducing discrimination against affected individuals, citing the government’s implementation of the HIV and AIDS policy for establishments 2022.
The NACP, currently in its fifth phase, aims to reduce new HIV infections, AIDS-related mortality, and the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS in society. Baghel emphasized the importance of accurate detection and treatment, as well as ensuring that care services reach even the remotest parts of the country.
He also highlighted the impact of individuals who refuse testing, as they can unknowingly spread the disease within their communities. Baghel called for demystifying the misconceptions surrounding HIV/AIDS and encouraged the community to get tested. He emphasized the need to support HIV/AIDS patients and urged for more rigorous campaigns to dispel myths associated with the disease.
Baghel expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for allocating Rs 15,471 crore (approximately $2 billion USD) to the program, demonstrating the government’s deep commitment to eliminating HIV/AIDS from India.
The two-day meeting organized by the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) aimed to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goal of ending HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. The NACO works towards preventing and controlling the spread of HIV/AIDS across the country through State AIDS Control Societies.
Hekali Zhimomi, Additional Secretary and DG NACO, commended the country for its exceptional efforts in reducing the HIV burden. Other officials, including Shobini Rajan and Dr. Chinmoyee Das from NACO, as well as state project directors and senior government officials, were also present at the event.
With the launch of this rigorous campaign, the National AIDS Control Program in India aims to combat HIV/AIDS effectively, reduce new infections and mortality rates, eliminate stigma, increase social inclusivity, and enhance awareness about the disease. Through a multi-sectoral approach and comprehensive initiatives, the program strives to achieve its objectives and contribute to a future free from this public health threat.
