SHILLONG, OCT 7: Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla on Wednesday said Meghalaya is stepping up its fight against HIV/AIDS with fresh recruitments, more treatment centres and a youth-driven awareness push.
On being asked about the latest HIV figures, Shylla said, “Right now, I have not really checked because I have not asked for the data as of now. We are totally focused on awareness.”
He said the state’s five-year action plan has received full government backing.
“Last time, as I already informed you, the government has approved a five-year plan. Now we have got the approval from the cabinet and the sanction. So we are in the process to recruit more manpower and to open more ART centres where people can come and get treated,” he said.
Shylla noted that the campaign launched recently has triggered activities across districts.
“Last time we launched the awareness programme. I am so happy that after that launching, a lot of activities are happening,” he said.
The Health Department, through the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society, is now planning a youth festival to widen outreach.
“Even now, we are preparing for a youth festival which will be conducted by MACS to make sure more people come and join us to fight against HIV,” he added.
By Our Reporter
