Spread Love and Solidarity to build stronger communities

May 22, 2023 74 Views No Comment

40th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial observed in Dimapur

Morung Express News
Dimapur | May 22

The 40th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial 2023 under the theme, ‘Spread Love and Solidarity to build stronger communities,’ was observed at the conference hall of Chavara Home, Dimapur on May 21.

This was a joint collaboration of Chavan Home, Dimapur, Network of Naga People, Nagaland State AIDS Control Society, NACO, Department of Social Welfare, Alliance India, Ark Foundation and Family Planning Association of India.

Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Sachin Jaiswal, IAS, speaking during the event observed that the fight against AIDs has been raging for almost four decades now with significant improvements being made in treating the disease by the medical industry. “The fight is now at the societal level and finding ways to bring communities together and build a support structure,” he noted.

In this regard, holding such inclusive events such as these, inviting individuals from the medical department, affected families, and most importantly the people living with HIV and AIDS will help disseminate the much needed awareness throughout the society, the DC said.

At the same time, he stressed on the matter of doing away with stigma and discrimination as it does more harm than good. “It has to be an all-inclusive partnership that the society has to bring together,” he added.

Moreover, the DC viewed that those affected who continue to live their lives proudly were the main heroes in all these discussions and their messages should be shared so that others don’t feel discouraged.

Till a final cure is discovered, the people must continue with the available medication, he mentioned.

Solidarity messages were also shared by Mecievinuo, DPO DAPCU; Michael Kath, Dimapur Naga Students Union; Dr Hotoka Hesso, SMO ART Plus Centre, Dimapur; and Chenithung, Bethesda Youth Welfare Centre.

During the programme, the invitees and guests took part in the lighting of candles and a minute of silent prayer was observed for the affected people, both past and present.