Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar today remarked that World AIDS Day is a global platform to unite in solidarity and reflect on the progress made in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The Advisor made these remarks while addressing the remarkable event organised by Jammu and Kashmir AIDS control society (JKACS) in the backdrop of World AIDS Day celebrations at Convention Centre here.
Principal GMC Jammu, MD NHM, Director Health Services Jammu/Kashmir, Director AYUSH, Additional Director, JKACS, Director Family Welfare and Immunisation J&K, Principals of different colleges, officers of health department, Red Ribbon Club members of Jammu University and medical colleges, paramedical institutes, huge gathering of school and college students were also present on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Advisor Bhatnagar commended the collective efforts that have contributed to advancements in treatment and prevention. He also stressed on the importance of collaborative initiatives between government bodies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector to ensure a comprehensive and sustained approach to combatting HIV/AIDS.
The Advisor highlighted that we as a society need to take ownership of those affected by AIDS or other problems like drug addiction and take proper measures for their well being and take lead in addressing their problems , taking it as our prime responsibility.
He added that the theme of this years World AIDS Day ‘Let Communities Lead’ also reflects on the responsibilities we as a society have to address the issues related to AIDS or any issue in the society. He underscored the need for continued efforts to eliminate stigma, enhance education and provide accessible healthcare for those affected.
The Advisor further said that present LG led Administration is committed to establish state of art medical ecosystem in the UT so that no person of J&K need to go outside for any kind of medical care.Advisor Bhatnagar on the occasion also lauded various initiatives of JKACS and their dedication and commitment towards creating a society free from the stigma of HIV/AIDS as well as giving proper facilities to the affected persons.
In his address, the Advisor also praised the affected persons for coming out in the open to speak and share their experiences. He remarked that sharing their struggle and experiences on this platform will give a positive message to the society.
While speaking on the occasion, Additional Director, JKACS, Dr. Manu Bhatnagar reflected on the various achievements and initiatives of JKACS to control the spread of AIDS as well as create awareness among the society about this virus. She highlighted that this years theme ‘Let Communities Lead’ is a testament towards role of communities in AIDS control.
The Additional Director further said that the JKACS has amplified the facilities for the affected persons and recently MoU was signed with GMC Jammu and SKIMS Soura for testing, faster reporting and better treatment of the affected persons.
During the event, Deputy Director, JKACS Dr. Tabassum Ganai presented welcome address highlighting the main motive of organising this programme while as Dr. Monica Dulloo rendered vote of thanks. On the occasion, Advisor Bhatnagar also felicitated winners of different competitions associated with celebrations of World AIDS day.
Earlier, Advisor Bhatnagar flagged of E-auto rally for creating awareness about AIDS and also released balloons in air to mark the occasion. He also visited various awareness booths installed by different wings of Health Department on creating awareness regarding HIV/AIDS, Free HIV Testing, TB Awareness, Ayush Medicines, among others.
During the programme, students of different institutions as well as members of Red Ribbon Clubs presented colourful cultural performances.