STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: Along with the rest of the world, Assam State AIDS Control Society (ASACS) observed World AIDS Day on December 1 with a gamut of activities including rallies, puppet show and public function. The theme of World AIDS Day-2020 is Global Solidarity, Shared Responsibility.
The day began with the flagging off of the Foot Rally and All Girls' Bike Rally by noted sportsperson (boxer) Bhagyabati Kachari and actor/writer Dr Akashitora along with ASACS Project Director, Anurag Goel, on the ASACS premises at 8:30 am. The rallies began from ASACS premises and after moving through different areas of the city culminated at Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra, Panjabari.
The State-level function began at Sri Sri Madhabdev International auditorium with the inauguration of the Blood Donation camp by Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare Department, Pijush Hazarika.
Speaking on the occasion as chief guest, the Minister said, "During the late 90s, many people lost their lives because of AIDS as there was no available treatment. But today HIV has become a manageable and treatable disease."
Equating HIV with COVID-19, the Minister said that both HIV and COVID-19 have no vaccine and therefore, prevention is the only vaccine. He further said that though Assam's HIV prevalence is less than other Northeastern States, still the State is vulnerable to HIV because we are surrounded by three of the most highly prevalent states - Mizoram, Nagaland and Manipur. The Minister also praised the efforts of the Health Department in fighting the COVID-19 menace.
Speaking on the occasion as guest of honour, noted playback singer Nahid Afrin said, "The new generation should stand against stigma and discrimination related to HIV. Forget about the myth of HIV, even the rumours related to HIV must not be spread." She concluded her speech by a song by legendary Bhupen Hazarika —Manuhe Manuhor Babe.
Speaking about the achievements of the HIV programme in Assam, Mission Director, NHM, Dr Lakshmanan S said, "HIV programme in Assam has come a long way since the inception of ASACS in 1998. I am happy that even during the COVID-19 pandemic, Anti Retroviral (ARV) drugs were delivered to HIV-infected people at doorsteps."
Comparing HIV and COVID-19, Dr Lakshmanan said that COVID has symptoms but HIV does not show symptoms in the initial period. He further said that for HIV prevention is the only cure.
Three HIV positive speakers also narrated their ordeal and their fight against social discrimination.
Six individuals were awarded in the event for their untiring services in HIV sector with trophies and certificates.
Earlier, Director of Health of Health Services, Assam, Dr Rathindra Bhuyan welcomed the participants in the meeting and outlined the significance of World AIDS Day 2020. The World AIDS Day was also observed in all districts across the State.