What Concerns Does CM Pema Khandu Have About Rising HIV/AIDS Cases in Arunachal?
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Synopsis
In a pressing call to action, Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu has voiced serious concerns regarding the alarming rise of HIV/AIDS cases in the region. During the recent State Council on AIDS meeting, he emphasized the need for urgent measures to address this public health crisis and combat the associated social stigma.
Key Takeaways
- Pema Khandu emphasizes the need for urgent action against rising HIV/AIDS.
- Focus on education to combat stigma is essential.
- Needle-sharing is a significant mode of HIV transmission.
- Government plans to enhance rehabilitation services.
- Community involvement is key to a drug-free Arunachal.
Itanagar, Oct 3 (NationPress) - The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, raised alarms on Friday regarding the escalating cases of HIV/AIDS in the Northeastern region.
During the 3rd State Council on AIDS (SCA) meeting, he evaluated the current situation surrounding HIV/AIDS and discussed ongoing initiatives aimed at halting the disease's spread.
Present at the meeting, which took place at the CM’s Office in Niti Vihar, were the state’s Health and Family Welfare Minister Biyuram Wahge along with senior officials.
On social media platform X, CM Khandu stated: “The rise in HIV-positive cases is a significant concern. We must act swiftly and effectively to prevent its spread, combat ignorance, and eliminate social stigma.” He added: “Today, I chaired the 3rd SCA Meeting of the Arunachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society, joined by esteemed Cabinet members, Advisors, senior officers, NGOs, and CBOs. Together, we aim to enhance awareness, prevention, and care measures to safeguard every life and foster an informed and compassionate society.”
In another post on X, he mentioned: “I also chaired the 2nd Meeting of the Arunachal Pradesh Psychoactive Substances Control Authority (APPSCA). This meeting emphasized that consumers are victims needing care and support, not punishment. We are now focusing on suppliers and peddlers, the primary contributors to this issue.”
“We discussed the necessity for improved rehabilitation and counseling services, increasing efforts against the supply chain, and fostering a community-driven movement for a drug-free Arunachal,” Khandu remarked.
Following the SCA meeting, Minister Biyuram Wahge highlighted that controlling the spread of HIV/AIDS in the state is of paramount importance.
Recent statistics indicate that the transmission of HIV/AIDS via infected needles (66.55 percent) surpasses that through unprotected sexual contact (30.55 percent), underscoring the critical need to address drug abuse in tandem with HIV prevention, he noted.
The Minister mentioned that the meeting resolved to enhance awareness concerning HIV and substance abuse, escalate the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, and cultivate a united, multi-sectoral response. According to data from the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), the adult prevalence rate for HIV/AIDS in Mizoram stands at 2.73 percent and 1.37 percent in Nagaland. These rates are significantly higher than those in the remaining 35 states and Union Territories.
NACO's data also reveals that the prevalence in four northeastern states—Manipur (0.87 percent), Meghalaya (0.43 percent), Tripura (0.37 percent), and Arunachal Pradesh (0.25 percent)—exceeds the national average of 0.20 percent. Only two northeastern states, Assam (0.13 percent) and Sikkim (0.11 percent), report a prevalence rate lower than the national average.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the growing concern regarding HIV/AIDS in Arunachal Pradesh. The alarming statistics presented by CM Pema Khandu reflect a pressing public health issue that requires a collective response. The focus should not only be on prevention but also on creating a supportive environment for those affected. As we report, the government’s initiatives are a step in the right direction towards building an informed and compassionate society.
NationPress
03/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of HIV/AIDS in Arunachal Pradesh?
The prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Arunachal Pradesh is currently at 0.25%, with rising cases primarily attributed to needle sharing and unprotected sex.
What measures are being taken to combat HIV/AIDS?
The Arunachal Pradesh government is focusing on enhancing awareness, prevention measures, and improving rehabilitation and counseling services.
How does the HIV prevalence in Arunachal Pradesh compare to other states?
Arunachal Pradesh has a higher prevalence rate compared to the national average of 0.20%. Neighboring states like Mizoram and Nagaland report even higher rates.
