World AIDS Day Cum Candle Light Service under the theme “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response” was jointly organised by District Health Society, Noklak, supported by Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) on December 1 at District Hospital, Noklak. The event also observed a candle light service as solidarity with those living with HIV, honoring lives lost to the disease, and also to promote continued efforts toward prevention and destigmatization.
Dr Chongya BL, District Hospital Noklak, highlighted the district’s HIV/AIDS scenario, reporting over one thousand recorded cases, with several deaths and many individuals currently undergoing treatment. He emphasized that with timely ART medication, patients can live normal, healthy lives.
He explained that AIDS continues to be prominent because many people still do not know their status. By 2030, the target is for 95 percent of people to be aware of their HIV status and to be virally suppressed, which greatly reduces the chance of transmission, he said.
Describing ART as a “wonder drug,” Dr. Chongya noted that stigma and discrimination remain major contributors to AIDS-related deaths. He urged on taking free test without fear and shame. However, he acknowledged that compared to past decades, public mindset is gradually changing and more people are opening up about testing and treatment. He noted that removing stigma and encouraging regular testing are essential to achieving the 2030 goal.
General Secretary, Khiamniungan Tribal Council (KTC), Hatho P acknowledged and commended the dedicated efforts of all departments and partners in observing World AIDS Day each year. He said the annual observance plays an important role in promoting awareness, strengthening public education, and advancing prevention and treatment measures.
Expressing deep concern, he noted the loss of many precious lives—both young and old—due to HIV/AIDS.
Citing departmental statistics, he said it was disheartening that Noklak district has, at times, recorded one of the highest rises in HIV-positive cases in Nagaland, reflecting a serious gap in awareness and understanding within the Khiamniungan community in earlier years.
Recalling the early 2000s, he said that during blood-testing initiatives conducted by ECS, many people criticised and resisted the process. “Today, the consequences of that attitude are evident,” he said, highlighting Noklak’s high HIV burden.
EAC Bangjunglemba urged the public to reflect on their collective commitment to fight HIV/AIDS and support those living with the virus.
Referring to this year’s theme, he noted that it highlights many ongoing challenges and stressed the need for stronger efforts to reduce new infections. He reminded that the global target aims to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, calling on all civil organisations and NGOs to work together toward this goal.
He emphasized that discrimination remains the biggest barrier, preventing people from getting tested freely and living without shame. Eliminating stigma, he said, is essential to building a society where every individual is treated with dignity.
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The EAC also highlighted the need to reach the remotest villages, especially in districts like Noklak, where far-flung areas must be given equal importance. He urged civil society and NGOs to strengthen efforts at the grassroots level to improve awareness and lower the number of people affected.
J Khumong, PM of KBCA TI, Noklak, explained the significance of World AIDS Day. He said the day serves to raise global awareness about the HIV/AIDS epidemic and to unite communities in the fight against the disease.
He stated that World AIDS Day emphasizes the importance of awareness and education, encourages people to get tested, and calls for efforts to combat stigma and discrimination. He added that the day also highlights the need to protect the rights of individuals, referring to the HIV/AIDS Act of 2017, and to show solidarity with those who are affected by it.
Kiphire
World Aids Day 2025 was observed under the Theme: “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response”, at DPDB Hall, Kiphire on December 1.
Deputy Commissioner Kiphire, Temsuwati Longkumer NCS, graced the program as the Special Guest. He said the World Aids Day is observed annually on 1st December to raise global awareness about HIV/AIDS, honour those affected, and to promote prevention, treatment, and solidarity.
Appealing to everyone to transform and response with innovation, and ensure that no one is left behind especially the most vulnerable one, the DC emphasized on the need for all the people to come together and step forward and help fight the HIV epidemic together.
Program Speaker, Dr Holiba A Anar, Medical Officer ARTC emphasized on World Aids Day, History, Significance and on the Theme of the day’s program. He stated the despite making progress in educating people, social stigma and taboo still exists and the day becomes significant for raising awareness about HIV/ AIDS and support those living with the virus, and also to remember those who have lost their lives with the disease.
While proposing short speech, DLN Kiphire spoke on awareness about Mission Shakti and the schemes available under Government Schemes.
Invocation was proposed by Tsilongse UDA, DC’s Office Kiphire and a welcome address by Tsiatsuvi, DPO DISHA. Special number was presented by Tsalopa Denis Zonal Supervisor LWS. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Seropi T Sangtam, ICTC Supervisor, DISHA. The program was chaired by Rozila ICTC Counsellor.
