HT Correspondent
DIBRUGARH, Dec 2: On the occasion of World AIDS Day, an awareness programme was organised by the Socio-Educational Welfare Association (SEWA) in Dibrugarh on Monday.
The event began with an awareness rally, flagged off by Salien Gogoi, principal of DHSK Commerce College.
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In collaboration with the district administration and District Health Society, the rally included participation from students, community members, and youth, who raised their voices for the rights of People Living with HIV (PLHIV) and other marginalised groups.
Dr Ravi Baruah, district AIDS control officer of Dibrugarh, also attended the rally.
Following the rally, an awareness meeting and cultural programme were held at the College Auditorium of DHSK Commerce College, in line with this year’s World AIDS Day theme: ‘Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right’. During the event, Arfan Hussain, vice president of SEWA, emphasised the importance of creating an environment in society that eliminates stigma and discrimination, enabling people to access health services without fear. He highlighted the significant role of mental health support in fostering an inclusive society where PLHIV and high-risk populations can access available government health services.
In his inaugural speech, Salien Gogoi, principal of DHSK Commerce College, urged the student and teaching community to dedicate time to spreading vital messages that can save lives and contribute to society.
Abhijit Saikia, secretary of DLSA, spoke about the legislation protecting the rights of PLHIV and combating stigma and discrimination. He emphasised that continuous awareness efforts can reduce the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.
Dr Pinky Poddar, medical officer at the OST Centre of AMCH, discussed the services provided under the harm reduction strategy of NACO.
Madhuri Bora, counsellor at the Drug Treatment Clinic of AMCH, stressed the necessity of mental health support for addicts during the de-addiction phases and addressed how unventilated emotions can put individuals at risk.
Dr Pritha Pratim Das, assistant professor of Microbiology at Lakhimpur Medical College, encouraged everyone to check their HIV status at government facilities, ensuring free and confidential services. Dr Ravi Baruah, DACO, also spoke about the facilities available for PLHIV and HIV testing within the district.
The programme was jointly organised with the NSS unit of DHSK Commerce College and included participation from recovering addicts and the LGBTQ community.
Community members also performed a colourful cultural programme to signify their rights and advocate against discrimination.
The event was also attended by Dr Ajit Goswami, programme officer of the NSS unit, Altaf Hussain, general secretary of SEWA, and Dr Prabin Thakur, MO of SEWA.
The programme was anchored by Dity Changmai Baruah, project manager of SEWA, and a vote of thanks was offered by Manshi Baruah, counsellor of SEWA.
Our Biswanath Chariali correspondent adds: Assam Rifles organised a meaningful awareness program at Gyan Vikash Academy, Charduar, to educate the community about HIV/AIDS prevention and reduce stigma on the occasion of World AIDS Day. The event witnessed active participation from 127 attendees, including 51 boys, 54 girls, 7 teachers, 9 parents, and 6 Assam Rifles personnel. Through engaging discussions and activities, the program emphasised the importance of early diagnosis, safe practices, and collective responsibility in combating HIV/AIDS. Assam Rifles’ commitment to spreading awareness reflected their dedication to fostering a healthier and more informed society, leaving a positive impact on students, teachers, and the community at large.
