Tiruvannamalai Collector participates in HIV/AIDS awareness program

Tiruvannamalai District Collector D Bhaskara Pandian took part in an HIV/AIDS awareness program organised by the District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit at the District Collectorate premises yesterday.
The program was conducted under the central theme of "Let Communities Lead," in collaboration with the National Center for AIDS Control and the Tamil Nadu State AIDS Control Association. 
These awareness efforts aim to create an HIV-free society by promoting education, prevention, and treatment. All individuals diagnosed with HIV are provided with combination drug therapy and government welfare assistance to help manage the infection and improve their quality of life.
In pursuit of the goal of zero new HIV infections and zero HIV/AIDS-related deaths, the district has made significant strides. During the 2023-2024 period, a total of 114,878 people were screened at Hope centres, including 28,870 pregnant women. 
Currently, around 6,998 individuals in the district are receiving life-prolonging combination drug therapy through the Government Medical College Hospital's ART Center and Linked ART Centers in government hospitals.
HIV testing and STD counselling are available at Tiruvannamalai Government Medical College Hospital, all government hospitals, primary health centres, sub-centers, and 116 mobile trust centres across the 
district. 
For information on HIV/AIDS, the public is encouraged to call the toll-free number 1800 419 1800. 
Additionally, the "Iyam Paap" mobile application provides essential information on HIV/AIDS, which the District Collector urged residents to utilise fully.
During the program, college students led by the District Collector took an awareness pledge to educate themselves and others about HIV/AIDS, promote HIV-free communities, and support individuals living with the virus.
The pledge emphasised the importance of equal rights and mental support for those affected.
Following the pledge, the District Collector flagged off an awareness rally, which included medical students from Tiruvannamalai Medical College, Arunai Engineering College, Vision Para Medical College, Almitina Management College, and Loyola Arts and Science College. 
The rally featured an HIV/AIDS testing vehicle and included the distribution of awareness leaflets and stickers. 
The District Collector also visited student-led awareness performances and exhibitions.
The event was attended by District Revenue Officer Iram Pradeepan, Deputy Director (Health Works) Dr. Selvakumar, Government Medical College Hospital Principal Dr. Harikaran, District AIDS Control Unit Project Officer (P) Subramanian, District Supervisor Muruganandam, along with doctors, nurses, and students.