CM calls for collective fight against HIV & drug abuse

GANGTOK,: Chief Minister PS Golay on Saturday chaired the first meeting of State Council on AIDS organised by the Sikkim State AIDS Control Society (SSACS) under the Health department here at Samman Bhavan.

Addressing the well-attended meeting, the Chief Minister assured the State government’s support towards reduction, prevention and eradication of HIV-AIDs and drug abuse in Sikkim. He highlighted the government's unwavering commitment to reinforcing the State's healthcare infrastructure, ensuring equitable access to HIV prevention, treatment, and support services. He emphasized that while significant progress has been made, the need for comprehensive awareness campaigns is urgent, especially in dispelling stigma, particularly within marginalized and vulnerable communities.

Golay, in his address, called on all the elected representatives to champion the fight against HIV and substance abuse, serving as ambassadors in their respective constituencies. To amplify awareness, he urged them to dedicate a five-minute segment in their future addresses to this critical issue.

By leveraging the influence of elected representatives, the Chief Minister hopes to create a rippling effect that inspires meaningful change and promotes a healthier, more informed community.

The Chief Minister further appealed to the line departments and stakeholders to extend all support in combating the menace of substance abuse and HIV-AIDs. Let us all come together in making Sikkim free from HIV-AIDS and drugs, and fulfil the dream of ‘Sunaulo, Samriddha and Samarth Sikkim’, he urged.

Golay noted that as per norms, the State Council on AIDS meeting should be held annually but it is being held today for the first time since the council was formed in 2021. From now onwards, the council’s meeting would be held annually as it deals with an important issue related with the society, he said.

The Chief Minister expressed that with proper awareness and sensitization, the spread of HIV-AIDS can be curbed effectively, and even eradicated. It is crucial for all the citizens, departments and even politicians to work towards generating public awareness on the disease, he said. Let us all be vocal and I believe that with the right awareness and sensitization, we can make Sikkim free from this disease, he added.

Golay assured to develop care centres for the HIV-AIDS patients in the State, and to extend all necessary support for their treatment and well-being. He also lauded the efforts made by the SSACS for the patients and its work for HIV-AIDS prevention in Sikkim.

Health minister GT Dhungel, also the co-chairperson, mentioned that HIV-AIDS awareness events are being held in the State, adding that the Chief Minister’s presence at the meeting today gives further impetus to the campaign. He emphasised the need for non-discrimination towards individuals affected by illnesses. He urged medical teams to maintain ongoing communication with hospitals to ensure quality treatment and education for patients.

The Health minister's address underscored the significance of genetic testing for cancer patients, alongside the crucial need for counseling and mental health awareness. To enhance patient engagement, health apps were touted as vital tools. Officials were encouraged to refine these apps' functionality and outreach, ensuring they effectively caters to patients' needs.

During the meeting, Dr Deki Wangmu Phempu, Project Director of SACS and co-convener of the State Council on AIDS, provided a detailed overview of the ongoing Phase V of the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP).

Namrata Sharma, assistant director of Mainstreaming at Sikkim SACS, emphasized the significance of mainstreaming and partnerships within the State council to strengthen the collective response to HIV/AIDS.

Tshering Ongmu Lepcha delivered a comprehensive presentation on the HIV/AIDS (Prevention & Control) Act, 2017, highlighting its key provisions and the legal framework for HIV/AIDS prevention and control.

The open discussions included improving awareness, increasing access to testing and treatment, and strengthening community involvement. The council emphasized the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders and the need for effective implementation of the National AIDS Control Programme.

During the programme, Dr Abhishek Gautam, gold medallist, was felicitated by the Chief Minister for securing 1st position in Nephrology.