JAMMU: Secretary Health & Medical Education, Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, today presided over the Union Territory level function held to mark World AIDS Day 2025.
The event was organised by the J&K AIDS Control Society (JKACS) at the Convention Centre, Canal Road, Jammu.
In his address, the Secretary spoke about the profound impact HIV/AIDS has on the lives and mental well-being of affected individuals. He highlighted the collective responsibility required to address such public health challenges. He emphasised the need for transformative solutions to improve patient access to HIV services, eliminate stigma and discrimination, while ensuring protection of their rights.
Dr. Abid Rasheed appreciated the efforts of JKACS and commended community members for openly sharing their experiences. He assured all possible support from the department to ensure that people living with HIV receive the necessary assistance to lead healthy and productive lives. He also underscored the importance of engaging diverse stakeholders to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of ending AIDS as a global health threat by 2030.
This year’s theme, “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,” focuses on addressing disruptions in HIV prevention and treatment services and calls for a transformed, resilient response driven by political commitment, international cooperation and human-rights-centered approaches.
Following the formal proceedings, the dignitaries visited various awareness booths set up by different wings of the Health Department in the foyer area. The stalls featured IEC material on HIV/AIDS, free HIV testing, TB awareness, AYUSH medicines, Anemia Mukt Bharat services, Tele-MANAS services, yoga demonstrations and distribution of medicines by NHM with support from the Directorate of Health Services Jammu.
The dignitaries also inspected the posters and canvas paintings prepared by the students from various Red Ribbon Clubs of different educational institutions.
Earlier, Project Director, J&K AIDS Control Society, Dr. Jehangir Bakshi, delivered the welcome address and outlined the overall functioning and initiatives of the Society.
The event also featured cultural performances, including dance presentations by students from various institutions, aimed at spreading awareness among the audience.
