It is our duty to be informed and spread awareness on HIV/AIDS: Arti Singh Rao
Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh-
Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao appealed to the youth to stay aware about HIV/AIDS and dispel misconceptions related to it. She said with proper information, timely testing and necessary precautions, the disease can be treated. The minister urged the youth not to believe in rumours and to follow verified medical advice.
On the occasion of International Youth Day, a state-level programme was organised at Government Girls College, Gurugram, where the Health Minister lit the ceremonial lamp and inaugurated the state-wide Intensified Information, Education and Communication campaign on HIV/AIDS, to be run from August 12 to October 10. She also flagged off a motorcycle and auto rally.
The minister explained that the disease spreads through infected blood, unsafe sexual contact, contaminated needles, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. Timely testing, proper treatment, and awareness are the best forms of prevention. She also informed that the Haryana Government is running special schemes to support people living with HIV/AIDS. Free treatment, counselling, and awareness programmes are being provided to help patients. Since April 1, 2021, the state has been implementing a special financial assistance scheme under which eligible beneficiaries receive 2,250 per month.
Rao emphasised that active participation of the youth can help build a strong public movement against this disease. She said it is everyone’s duty to be aware and to spread awareness among others, so that the message reaches every corner.
Pataudi MLA Bimla Chaudhary said youth are the backbone of the country and must remain vigilant about their own health and the health of society. She appealed to the youth to actively participate in the campaign and spread the message of awareness to every village.
Gurugram Civil Surgeon Dr. Alka Singh informed that under this campaign, various districts will host plays, dances, media workshops, exhibitions, and motorcycle rallies to spread accurate information among the youth. The campaign’s objective is not only to prevent the disease but also to raise awareness about the legal rights of people living with HIV and to eliminate discrimination against them in society.
She added that for any information, guidance, or assistance related to HIV/AIDS, people can contact the national helpline number 1097, where trained counsellors provide necessary support and information confidentially.
No. IPRDH/2025