Noklak observed World AIDS Day under the theme ‘Equalize’ at CMO Conference Hall, Noklak on 1 December.
Guest Speaker of the day, Kathyinla, EAC Noklak, called on education institutions to take up initiatives to spread HIV/AIDS awareness, stating that it is essential to grab the children’s attention from the beginning so that they can be HIV/AIDS awareness ambassadors.
Further, Kathyinla urged to focus on the solution rather than the problems and challenges to erase the epidemic by 2030 as per the Targets of Sustainable Development Goal 3. She added that the fight against HIV/AIDS is not only the responsibility of the medical department but also of the district administration and the NGOs.
Dr Victor, chief medical officer (CMO) cum medical superintendent, Noklak District Hospital, while pointing out the hardships due to lack of manpower, said that the focus of Noklak is not limited to the circle within but beyond the border.
He stated that initiatives to spread HIV/AIDS awareness should be taken up in every platform possible and not just on World AIDS Day.
Speaking on the positive response from some opioid substitution therapy (OST) and antiretroviral treatment (ART) clients, Dr Victor stated that he is happy to see them coming to the mainstream of treatment rather that sneaking into illegal ways.
Dr Victor, chief medical officer (CMO) cum medical superintendent, Noklak District Hospital.
Later, while speaking to Nagaland Tribune, Dr Victor highlighted the status of HIV/AIDS in Noklak mentioning the status of OST to be 319, 75 in ART, total registration of HIV till October 2022 is said to be 733. He also notified that out of 181 pregnant mothers tested, 10 were found positive.
Citing the alarming rate of HIV/ AIDS cases caused by various reasons which includes cross- border intervention, Dr. Victor called on the high need of DAPU (District AIDS Prevention Unit) in Noklak, the district being a hot zone and further covers both Noklak and Myanmar.
The CMO said that the proposal had been submitted and that positive response is awaited from the government.
While there is still stigmatization, there is also few acceptances and support towards people living with HIV/AIDS, he added.
Newkhai, president of KMH, Hime, ART counsellor, Mongshai, SHG
Newkhai, president, Khiamniungan Meniu Hoikam, speaking on the significance of the day, highlighted the symbol of the Red Ribbon stating that it stands for support and encouragement towards People Living with HIV/ AIDS. She stressed on everyone being equalised in every status of the society and avoid stigma and discrimination towards People Living with HIV/AIDS.
Y Tsongtsan, an ART client, sharing his testimony spoke about the struggles and depression he faced in the past days and the journey it took for him to gather courage to open up. He expressed his appreciation to those who supported him and advised the gathering to be wise and careful.
As part of the event, health check-up for children was given by Noklak District Hospital and an exhibition cum sale of the SHG products was also organised.
The programme was chaired by Langmong, Program Associate Kripa Foundation Nagaland, Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) Project, Invocation by K Chongkoi , Project Director, KBCA, Special Song by OVC staffs, sharing of experience by Mongshai , Treasurer Ayangtaiu ( Hope), SHG Noklak, Vote of Thanks by Hime, ART counsellor, Noklak District Hospital.
The World AIDS Day programme at Noklak was jointly organised by Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS), Noklak District Administration, Kripa foundation Nagaland, Y R Gaitonde Centre for AIDS Research and Education (YRGCARE Accelerate), Noklak District Hospital and Khiamniungan Baptist Churches Association (Targetted Intervention).
