Bhubaneswar: The Odisha State AIDS Control Society (OSACS) on Monday observed the State-level World AIDS Day at Capital Hospital here.
Speaking as the Chief Guest on the occasion, Minister of Health & Family Welfare Dr. Mukesh Mahaling said that with united efforts, the State can eliminate HIV infection in the coming days. If the youths are well-informed and aware, Odisha will be able to reach its targeted goals more effectively. By preventing new HIV infections and ensuring proper treatment and care for people living with HIV, Odisha will be able to achieve major milestones by 2030, he said.
The Health Minister emphasized strengthening collective initiatives to ensure uninterrupted HIV-related services and appealed to social workers, NGOs, health workers, students—especially the youth—to take a pledge toward making the State AIDS-free.
Dr. Neelakantha Mishra, Project Director, OSACS, delivered the welcome address and shared the objectives and theme of the day. To spread awareness among the public, a mass rally was organized this morning from Capital Hospital to Shishu Bhawan Square. The rally was flagged off by the Minister along with Kotpad MLA Rupu Bhatra, Malkangiri MLA Narasingha Madkami, Nabarangpur MLA Gouri Shankar Majhi, Kantabanji MLA Lakshan Bag, Principal Secretary, Health & Family Welfare Department Aswathi S., and other distinguished guests.
It is noteworthy that World AIDS Day has been observed across all districts throughout this week. Additionally, all Government Medical Colleges, 700 colleges, and 800 schools with Red Ribbon Clubs, in collaboration with the Red Cross Society, conducted various competitions and awareness activities to mark the occasion.
Among others, Joint Director of OSACS Dr. D.S. Aravind, Administrative Officer Ms. Shatabdi Ray, Assistant Director Smruti Sagarika Kanungo and various officers and staff of OSACS attended the programme.
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