1 December: World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day was observed on 1 December 2019, to raise public awareness about Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), a pandemic disease caused due to infection of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) which affects the human immune system. The day also provides an opportunity for people to unite in fight against HIV and to show support for those living with HIV. The theme for year 2019 is “Communities Make the Difference.”

World AIDS Day is being celebrated every year since 1988 and is one of the eight official global public health campaigns marked by World Health Organization (WHO).

India & AIDS

As per latest estimate of 2017, there are about 21 lakh 40 thousand people living with HIV in India. The government is implementing National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) as a 100% Central Sector Scheme for prevention and control of AIDS. NACP response to HIV epidemic comprise a comprehensive 3-pronged strategy of prevention, testing and treatment. Government has also developed a 7-year National Strategic Plan from 2017 to 2024 to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

In Uttar Pradesh, various awareness programmes were organised on occasion of World AIDS Day.  Uttar Pradesh State AIDS Control Society (UPSACS) also organised awareness progress at Rumi Gate in Lucknow where various NGO will participate. North Eastern Railway organised awareness programmes at Lucknow and it’s various railways stations where passengers were taught awareness is better than cure.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2019