Nagaland observes AIDS Candlelight Memorial Day

Kohima, May 20: Nagaland today observed the 24th Annual International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Day in the state to commemorate those lives claimed by HIV/AIDS.

Nagaland, along with the rest of the world, observed the day to also show support to people living with HIV/AIDS, as well as to mobilise community-based response towards HIV/AIDS.

The day is an opportunity to collectively renew struggle against challenges faced by people living with HIV/AIDS, including increased access to prevention and care services and opportunities for livelihood.

The theme for this year's Candlelight Memorial Day was "Tribute to our Lost Friends".

The main event will be held at Pastoral Centre, Holy Cross, Dimapur this evening.

Speaking on the ocassion, President of the Dimapur Network of Positive People(DNP+) Moa gave credit to earlier leaders within the positive community for strengthening the networks and offered their salute them for their contributions.

Dr Neiphi Kire, Project Director, Nagaland State AIDS Control Society(NSACS) said the Candlelight Memorial Day provides an opportunity to confront the stigma attached to HIV/AIDS. He saw a reversing of the epidemic in five years, especially with the momentum provided by National AIDS Control Programme III, which formally get launched a few weeks from now.

Abraham, General Secretary, Indian Network of Positive People (INP+) said the society must hold more discussions on the HIV/AIDS issue and extend their support to those affected by it.

UNI