Arunachal intensifies HIV/AIDS awareness, statewide campaign launched amid rising cases

In a significant move to combat the growing number of HIV cases in Arunachal Pradesh, the state’s Health Minister, Biyuram Wahge, officially launched an intensified HIV/AIDS awareness campaign in Itanagar. The two-month-long Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign, initiated in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh AIDS Control Society, aims to reach every corner of the state, spreading crucial knowledge about HIV prevention, testing, and treatment.

 

The launch event, which took place in the capital city, saw Health Minister Wahge and Dr. Mahesh Chai, Advisor to the Health Minister, flagging off a mass awareness bike rally. This rally, spearheaded by the Arunachal Superbike Club and supported by over twenty other bike clubs, including the Bullet Club, started from Akashdeep in Itanagar and concluded in Lekhi. The rally was designed to capture the attention of the youth, encouraging them to engage with the campaign’s message of safe practices and reducing stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.

 

During the event, Health Minister Wahge emphasized the critical role of public participation in the fight against HIV/AIDS. "Awareness, testing, and treatment are our key weapons in securing a healthy future," Wahge stated, underlining the necessity of community involvement in this ongoing battle.

 

Hinakum Mein, a member of the People Living with HIV (PLH) group and secretary of the awareness team, shared his personal experience with the media. Diagnosed with HIV just last year, Mein spoke candidly about the discrimination he has faced from friends and relatives, highlighting the social challenges that accompany the disease. "Since my diagnosis, I’ve been striving to stay strong, even going to the gym regularly. However, the stigma I encounter is disheartening. I urge everyone to be resilient and to fight against HIV if they test positive," Mein urged, calling for greater compassion and understanding from society.

 

Dr. Majum Basar, Project Director of the Arunachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society, also addressed the media, elaborating on the objectives of the campaign. "This initiative is not just about raising awareness; it's about providing education that can lead to meaningful behavioral change," Dr. Basar explained. The campaign, though delayed in Arunachal due to logistical reasons, was originally launched nationwide on International Youth Day, August 12. Over the next two months, it will focus on two districts, Papum Pare and East Siang, aiming to reach hundreds of villages. "Our goal is to educate communities on the importance of safe practices, especially in light of the 2,158 HIV cases reported in the state. Thankfully, these cases have not escalated into AIDS," Dr. Basar added.

 

The bike rally, which served as the campaign’s visual centerpiece, was particularly aimed at engaging the youth. Dr. Gobi Basar, a member of the Arunachal Superbike Club, explained the club's involvement. "Youth are naturally drawn to bikes, so we saw this rally as an opportunity to spread a vital social message. This is the first time our club is involved in such a cause, and we’re proud to contribute to raising awareness. The rise in HIV cases, often linked to drug use and needle sharing, is a concern we can no longer ignore," Dr. Basar stated.

 

As the campaign rolls out across Arunachal Pradesh, the combined efforts of the government, local organizations, and the community aim to create a more informed, compassionate, and proactive society in the fight against HIV/AIDS.