AP govt relaunches massive Condom promotion programme

Hyderabad, Jun 18 (UNI) Andhra Pradesh Health and Family Welfare Minister S Chandrasekhar relaunched the massive Condom promotion programme ''Unda Mee Daggera'' (Do you have it), organised by AP State Aids Control Society (APSACS) along with brand ambassadors and filmstar couple Dr Rajasekhar and Ms Jeevitha here.

Speaking on the occasion yesterday, Mr Chandrasekhar said the prevalence of HIV in the state had reduced to 0.88 per cent from 2 per cent in recent months. The Government's aim was to bring it down to zero by promoting condom usage and prevent the Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) in the state.

He said about 1300 STD clinics would be set up under public-private partnership (PPP) during this year.

APSACS Director R Chandravadan said the programme would reach the the outlets through a strong network of 105 distributors across the state. The programme has set a target to distribute 80 lakh condoms this year in the state.

Premium brand condoms would also be distributed free in future along with Rakshak and Deluxe Nirodh brands, which would be available in 50,000 new outlets, Mr Chandravadan said, adding the programme would reach the community through non-conventional media and also local media like billboards, wall paintings and kiosks.

The Brand Ambassodors Dr Rajasekhara and Ms Jeevitha said they were ready to participate in the condom promotion programme at the grassroot level.

UNI AP CS VP0412