The District AIDS Control Officer (West and East Jaintia Hills), District Integrated Strategy for HIV/AIDS (DISHA) Khliehriat Cluster, with the support from the Office of the Project Director Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS), Shillong observed the District Level World AIDS day on 8th December in Jowai at District Library Auditorium, Jowai, West Jaintia Hills District on the theme, ” Overcoming Disruptions and Transforming the AIDS Responses”.
Assistant Commissioner Smt.LBR Marak, underlined the global efforts to combat HIV and AIDS while reflecting on the progress achieved and the challenges that persist. She emphasised this year’s theme, “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming AIDS Response,” and stressed that recent global challenges have strengthen the resolve to continue efforts in HIV prevention, testing and treatment.
She acknowledged the vital role played by the District Aids Control Society, District Integrated Strategy for HIV/AIDS (DISHA) Khliehriat Cluster and the Meghalaya Aids Control Society, emphasising that addressing HIV stressing that the fight against HIV is a shared community responsibility. She stressed that awareness, compassion and education are the strongest tools in this fight.
Smt.Marak called for continued efforts to eliminate stigma and misinformation, underscoring that these remain major barriers to effective HIV management. She encouraged regular testing, open dialogue and supported individuals living with HIV without judgement or discrimination. When people are free from fear, she said, they seek care earlier, adhere to treatment and live healthier and more empowered lives.
She also recognised the dedication of frontline health workers, counsellors, NGOs and volunteers whose tireless service brings hope and saves lives.
Shri.L.S Khonglah, Assistant Legal Aids Defense Counsel, WJH emphasised the importance of HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, he explained that before 2017, people living with HIV faced severe discrimination, harassment and social isolation, which led the government of India to enact the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017. Shri. Khonglah clarified that the Act aims not only at the prevention and control of HIV but also at safeguarding the human rights of those affected. Expressing concern that the district currently ranks first in HIV cases, with many young people affected, he stressed the need for regular testing to understand one’s health status and ensure safety. He also highlighted the key provision of the Act.
A debate competition was also organised for the students as part of the World Aids Day observance, aiming to engage young minds and deepen their understanding of HIV and AIDS.
Inspector Shri. Sunday Manner, Police Reserve, Jowai also spoke on the occasion. The event began with a welcome address by Shri. Sandy Tariang, Cluster Programme Manager, District Integrated Strategy for HIV/AIDS, (DISHA, Jaintia, hosted by Smt. Rinibeh Patlong, Program Manager, MCSWA CC Khliehriatwhile Dr. P.Lamare, District TB Officer cum District Aids Control Officer East & West Jaintia delivered the keynote address, highlighting the purpose and significance of the observance and Dr. Ferry Khonglah CSO, District Integrated Strategy for HIV/AIDS gave the vote of thanks.
