LIKABALI, Aug 13: The Intensified Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Campaign 3.0 was officially launched today at Likabali, the headquarters of Lower Siang district, by State Assembly Deputy Speaker Kardo Nyigyor and Nari Koyu MLA Tojir Kadu, in presence of the Deputy Commissioner, Additional Deputy Commissioner, HoDs, public leaders, and hundreds of students from various educational institutions.
To mark the launch of the campaign, a mass awareness rally comprising students, Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), and Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) leaders was flagged off by the chief guest and guest of honour. More than 100 students from Govt Hr Sec School, Likabali, and Independent Golden Jubilee Govt Hr Sec School participated in the rally, demonstrating their commitment towards creating awareness on HIV/AIDS and drug abuse.
The awareness rally, organized by the Arunachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society (APSACS) in collaboration with the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO), commenced from the vicinity of the police station, Likabali, and culminated at the GHSS auditorium, Likabali.
The campaign aimed to address the growing concern of HIV/AIDS in the State and promote informed, responsible behaviour among the youth.
Speaking on the occasion, Tashor Pali, Jt Director (IEC) APSACS, highlighted the objectives of the Intensified IEC Campaign 3.0 and elaborated on the four primary modes of HIV transmission: infected blood-to-blood contact, mother-to-child transmission, sharing of infected needles and syringes, and unprotected sexual contact. He emphasized the importance of awareness, early prevention, and responsible behaviour in curbing the spread of HIV.
The MLA encouraged students to resist negative peer pressure, stay away from alcohol and tobacco, and maintain discipline in their daily lives. He urged the younger generation to remain vigilant and informed about HIV/AIDS and its modes of transmission to protect their health and future.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Speaker underscored the crucial role of youth in bringing positive social change. He explained how HIV weakens the body’s immune system and stressed that the disease can be effectively prevented by avoiding the four major routes of transmission. He called upon students and community members to become ambassadors of awareness within their families and communities. (DIPRO)