JAMMU: World AIDS Day 2021 function was organised by J&K AIDS Control Society (JKACS) at Kala Kendra, Bikram Chowk, Jammu here today. A small limited gathering function was organized keeping in view the prevailing corona pandemic guidelines issued by the government.
This year the theme of this day is “End inequalities, End AIDS, End Pandemics” with a special focus on reaching people left behind, addressing growing inequalities in accessing essential HIV services. The present health crisis has also reminded us about the importance of global approach to tackle the current pandemic situation effectively as the responsibility lies with each and every individual to follow the preventive measures in order to remain safe themselves and also to keep others safe.
Earlier the function was inaugurated by Dr. Samir Mattoo, Project Director JKACS, Department of Health & Medical Education, J&K in which different colourful activities were held.
On spot acrylic as well as water colour painting competitions were held in which students from the Institute of Music and Fine Arts, Jammu participated. Red Ribbon Club members from different Nursing and para-medical institutions participated in the on spot rangoli making competition. Posters made by students from different institutes were also displayed at the Kala Kendra for exhibition. A small documentary on the overall working of JKACS was also played for the information of the visitors. A big size Red Ribbon Logo insignia, IEC stalls, walk-in testing for covid & HIV and red ribbon logo made of candles were some of other activities that were held in open ground.
Later in the evening all the officials of JKACS also attended the launch of third phase of New India @75 (Aazadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav) virtually from JKACS Jammu office. Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Union Minister, Health & Family Welfare, GoI was the chief guest and Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar MOS, Health & Family Welfare, GOI was the guest of honour in the virtual launch of the event.
In addition to this small functions are also being organized to observe World AIDS Day at district levels by the concerned Chief Medical Officers through their respective Directorates of Health in the whole of J&K and Ladakh.

KR Desk