Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 01 2021: The State joined in observing the World AIDS Day 2021 under the theme 'End Inequalities End AIDS' today thereby reaffirming the stand to fight unitedly against HIV/AIDS.
Coalition Against Drugs & Alcohol (CADA) observed the World AIDS Day in a simple function held at the conference hall of Head Office of CADA located at Konung Mamang Pureiromba Khongnang khong today.
The event was graced by president, All Manipur Working Journalist Union (AMWJU), Wangkhemcha Shyamjai, president, Community Network for Empowerment (CoNE), RK Nalinikanta and president, CADA, Hijam Priyokumar as the presidium members.
Delivering the key note address, secretary general, CADA, Geetchandra Mangang emphasized on the need to strengthen the ongoing 'War on Drugs' to save the people of the State especially the youths from the clutch of drugs and other harmful substances.
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World AIDS Day observed widely
He maintained that if the campaign cannot be continued then the Government should revive the various laws and Acts against drugs and to fully implemented to provide stringent punishments to the perpetrators.
Expressing concern over the absence of the stand against drugs in the election manifestos of the intending candidates, he appealed to all concerned to include the same by analysing the complexity of the issue of drugs and substance abuse and to work with commitment to resolve the issue.
He further expressed the desire to revive the legislature forum formed in 2007 in connection with HIV/AIDS inorder to work effectively against the disease.
Speaking on the occasion, Wangkhemcha Shyamjai said that it is important to check whether those diagnosed with HIV/AIDS are receiving the due benefits of the various schemes initiated by the Government and NGOs.
He also appealed to all to provide any feedbacks or suggestions regarding the schemes and measures related to HIV/AIDS through media platform.
Many resource persons also spoke on today's programme.
As a part of 'World AIDS Day' observation, the Manipuri Students Federation (MSF) has affirmed its stand to fight against the dreaded disease and to eradicate HIV/AIDS from Manipur.
MSF in a press release also urged all to make concerted efforts to ensure that one stays fit and healthy mentally and physically.
Further the student body stressed on the need to motivate and provide emotional support to all those who have been diagnosed with HIV to help them lead a normal life free from all sorts of social stigma.
MSF also prayed for the peace of all the departed souls who have succumbed to HIV/AIDS and appealed to all who are undergoing treatment to lead an optimistic life.
To spread awareness on HIV/AIDS, Sayon Entertainment in association with Brother In Arms and supported by Manipur State AIDS Control Society (MACS) staged a rally from the Northern Gate of Kangla till the Western Gate today.
After the rally, a candle lighting ceremony was also held.
Speaking on the sidelines, executive member of Brothers In Arms, said the rally and candle lighting ceremony has been conducted to provide support and motivate those who are living with HIV/AIDS at present and also to pay homage to all the souls who passed away due to HIV/AIDS.