Started in 1988, December 1 is globally marked as World AIDS Day.
This year’s theme is Stop AIDS; Keep the Promise - Accountability
In a country where close to 5 million people are living with HIV, India has to go several thousand miles to check this epidemic.
Poverty, illiteracy, and poor health (though not necessarily in that order) further worsen the situation.
Ignorance and prejudice are two main reasons why many cases go unreported and unchecked.
The social stigma associated with AIDS is enormous.
In such an existing state of affairs, it is slightly consoling to see that quite a few volunteers are doing their bit to publicize facts about AIDS, and dispel myths.
Across the country(and beyond), many organizations, notably UNAIDS, World AIDS Day, Avert , International AIDS Society (IAS), etc are holding series of programs, AIDS awareness sessions, voluntary blood donation camps, seminars on HIV / AIDS prevention, care and counseling.
In Delhi too, I was pleasantly surprised to see people wearing red ribbons—the global symbol expressing solidarity with HIV+ people.
Makes me note that there are quite a few people out there who are willing to extend their commitment and support to those afflicted with AIDS.
1 comment:
Very true vandy........ & I think in country like ours where many literates are also illiterate more & more people shud come & join hands to publicize facts & myths 'bot AIDS...... where there are
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