World AIDS Day was commemorated at Mhomo Hall, Witter Theological College, Wokha, on 1 December 2024, under the theme “Take the Rights Path”. The event was jointly organized by District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit (DAPCU), Wokha Network of Positive People (WNP+), Nagaland Users’ Network (NUN), ZWS, Bethesda Youth Center (BYWC) TI NGO, and supported by the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS).
Speaking at the event, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Wokha, Renbomo Ezung, the special guest, urged attendees to also focus on practical measures to support individuals living with HIV/AIDS besides creating awareness. He pointed out that societal stigma and lack of compassion exacerbate the challenges faced by those affected and called for the community to provide guidance, love, and care, to create a supportive environment. The ADC emphasized the importance of collective action, compassion, and awareness to combat HIV/AIDS and foster an inclusive and supportive society.
District Programme Officer (DPO), NCD, Dr. Aseno Rhetso, stressed the need to eliminate stigma and discrimination to achieve the goal of eradicating HIV/AIDS by 2030. She emphasized that marginalization obstructs treatment and urged society to break down barriers and ensure regular follow-ups for infected individuals.
Dr. Rhetso also highlighted advancements in Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART), which have significantly improved the lifespan of people living with HIV/AIDS. She shared data showing that, as of September, Wokha has 342 HIV-positive individuals receiving ART treatment. Additionally, she noted that Mizoram has the highest HIV prevalence in India, followed by Nagaland and then Manipur.
A candlelight vigil was held in memory of those who lost their lives to the disease.
The program was led by Principal of Bailey Baptist College, T. Penthungo Lotha. The invocation was delivered by Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Mt. Tiyi College, Thungiano E. Ovung.
Principal of Witter Theological College, Dr. Nzanthung Ngullie, welcomed the gathering. Advocate and Panel Lawyer for WDLSA, Yangrothung Humtsoe, presented the HIV/AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act.
A special song was sung by Kekiengaulule, an exhortation by President of WNP+, Apeni Lotha, and a vote of thanks delivered by DPO, DAPCU, Wokha, Lichumo Odyuo. The event concluded with a benediction by Nodal Officer, RRC WTC, Dr. Chanchithung Yanthan.
