Panaji, Dec 02nd, 2018 .. Goa State AIDS Control Society, observed the ‘World AIDS Day” at Secretariat, Porvorim recently. The theme for this year’s programme was ‘Live Life Positively’, know your HIV status.
Secretary for Health Shri J. Ashok Kumar, IAS was the Chief Guest while Smt. Deepali Naik, Jt. Director(ICDS), Directorate of Women and Child Development was the Guest of Honour. Dean of GMC Dr. Pradip Naik was also present on the occasion.
The programme began with lighting the traditional lamp followed by flagging off the IEC mobile van. The mobile van is meant to create awareness on AIDS and will travel over the cities and villages in Goa.
While addressing the gathering, Secretary Shri J. Ashok, IAS said that this day is observed to ensure that we contempt the menace of AIDS and try to reduce its instances. GSACS is putting a lot of efforts with active support from the NGO’s and other stakeholders towards achieving a ‘Zero AIDS’ situation. Difference between HIV and AIDS must be understood, he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri J. Ashok said, the AIDS prevention and control Act is a powerful tool against those who show any kind of discrimination against people living with AIDS. Goa is working towards framing was under this act. We will be able to implement the act in full force so as to ensure that the objectivities of the acts are achieved, he said. He further informed that the Government is also working on 90/90/90 programme whereby 90% of the people living with HIV AIDS to move their status to 90% HIV patients who are on treatment and 90% should be prevented from getting HIV. GSAIDS is been working hard on it.
The dignitaries later distributed prizes to Anganwadi workers who won prizes in ‘Skit Play’ competitions. The Results of Skit Competition is South Goa- 1st prize- Dharbandora, 2nd –Quepem, 3rd-Salcette II. North Goa- 1st prize- Sattari Group II, 2nd-Pernem Group II and 3rd-Bardez Group I.
Earlier, Deputy Director, Directorate of Health, Dr. Jose D’sa welcomed the gathering and gave a presentation on condition of AIDS disease in Goa.
Smt. Asha Vernekar compered the programme while Dr. D’Sa proposed the vote of thanks
