CM gives 3-G Formula to combat HIV

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presided over the 37th World AIDS Day programme observed under the theme ‘Take the Right Path’ and gave the “3-G Formula” for HIV prevention, which is “Get Aware, Get Tested and Get Victory over HIV” here today.

During the event, the Chief Minister launched the ‘Car Bin’ initiative to promote HIV awareness and cleanliness. In the first phase, 4,000 taxis would be equipped with these bins free of charge, with plans to cover all 30,000 taxis in the state in a phased manner.

The Chief Minister, during his address, said that the state has taken significant steps in the past two years to address HIV and improve overall healthcare. He said that targeted individuals were being provided with equal access to awareness, testing and medication.

“As many as 8 lakh people were made aware of HIV and from January 2023 to October 2024, a record 5,92,902 individuals were tested for HIV and 234 testing camps were organised. The state currently has 55 testing and counselling centres along with two mobile testing vehicles offering free HIV testing services,” he said.

He also urged the youth to adopt this principle and contribute in raising awareness about the HIV. The Chief Minister said, “Young people must be made aware of HIV so that they could encourage others in their communities to voluntarily undergo for HIV testing.”

The Chief Minister also assured that the HIV-positive individuals would be provided free treatment and medication through Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) centres immediately after detection. “Presently, about 5,897 individuals in the state are availing free treatment and medication facilities,” he added.

Expressing concern over the link between substance abuse, syringe use and the spread of HIV, the Chief Minister said, “The rising issues of drug use among the youth and substance abuse through syringes deeply concern us, which leads a serious impact on the future of our coming generations.”

The Chief Minister further said that HIV was not just a health challenge but also a socio-economic issue. He called for a united effort from all departments, institutions, educational bodies, representatives and community members to end discrimination and create widespread awareness. “Together, we will defeat HIV and gift our youth an HIV-free Himachal,” he added.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Dhani Ram Shandil reaffirmed the commitment of the present state government regarding eliminating HIV through continuous awareness programmes.

Earlier, the Chief Minister flagged off an awareness marathon from his official residence, Oak Over which concluded at Hotel Peterhoff. The winners of the marathon were felicitated by the Chief Minister. A cultural programme promoting HIV awareness was also presented during the event.