Indore (Madhya Pradesh): With over 500 new AIDS cases detected every year, the city has seen a significant rise in testing, from 60,636 in 2012 to 181,453 in 2022, reflecting increased awareness among people. Meanwhile, various NGOs like Samagra, and Vishwas, active since 2003, have registered 8,415 patients and conducts weekly camps to provide medication, yoga, and meditation, instilling courage among patients.
Their work has enabled many HIV-positive individuals to lead fulfilling lives, with numerous couples giving birth to healthy children. Dr Ashok Thakur, nodal officer at MY Hospital’s ART Centre, emphasised that with regular treatment, the viral load becomes negligible, allowing AIDS-positive parents to deliver AIDS-negative babies.
He added that the percentage of AIDS cases is steadily declining due to early intervention and awareness campaigns. The organisations also conduct awareness drives in villages, schools, and colleges, reducing stigma and promoting testing. Health Department data for 2024 shows 107,350 tests conducted so far, identifying 387 positive cases, further underscoring the impact of these sustained efforts.
JP Nadda to attend World AIDS Day event
Union Health Minister JP Nadda will visit Indore on Sunday to participate in the World AIDS Day event at the DAVV auditorium. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, deputy chief minister Rajendra Shukla, and other leaders will also participate in the programme.
Aligned with this year’s theme, ‘Take the Rights Path,’Nadda will address key issues like awareness, treatment access, and eliminating stigma for those living with AIDS.
The event will feature an exhibition showcasing NACO’s digital ecosystem, community engagement efforts, and handcrafted items by patients. Nadda will also launch NACO’s AIDS Day theme song, to be performed live by singers Dev Negi, Moko Koza, and Egisi. Inspirational stories and new resources for the AIDS mission will also be unveiled.
