Sirmaur district runs for AIDS awareness
Sirmaur Chief Medical Officer Dr Ajay Pathak emphasised the importance of youth awareness in preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS. Addressing participants at a marathon event organised in Nahan on Tuesday, Dr Pathak highlighted that the youth play a crucial role in controlling the spread of these diseases.
He added that unsafe sexual practices and the use of shared syringes were the key factors contributing to the rise of HIV/AIDS cases.
The marathon was organised by the Department of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with the AIDS Control Society. The marathon began at the Chogan ground, passed through Naya Bazaar, Villa Round and concluded at Chogan. Members of Red Ribbon Clubs from across the district, along with students from various educational institutions, participated in the event.
Dr Pathak flagged off the marathon, encouraging the participants to prioritise their health and avoid risky behaviours. He stressed the need for young people to avoid unsafe sexual relationships and warned against the growing trend of drug use, which could lead to the transmission of life-threatening diseases such as HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and hepatitis.
Dr Pathak also mentioned that similar marathons were being held across other districts of Himachal Pradesh to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS prevention among the youth.
In the boys’ marathon, Shubham from ITI-Bogdhar secured the first place, followed by Manoj Kumar from Government College Sangrah and Om Prakash from ITI- Nahan. Consolation prizes were awarded to Vishal from Bharli Government College and Rahul Rana from Paonta Sahib Government Polytechnic.
In the girls’ marathon, Kamini from Paonta Sahib Government Polytechnic stood first, Anjana from Renukaji Government College finished second and Shweta Thakur bagged the third position. Shivani Chauhan from Sangrah Government College and Bhoomika from Bharli Government College were awarded consolation prizes.
The winners received cash prizes of Rs 2,500, Rs 2,000 and Rs 1,500, respectively.
Dr Veena Sangal, District Programme Officer of AIDS Control Programme, praised the work of Red Ribbon Clubs in spreading awareness about HIV and AIDS. She urged the youth to continue supporting awareness campaigns and thanked the participants for their active involvement in the event.
Block Medical Officer Dr Monisha Agarwal, Medical Officer Dr Anupama and others were also present on the occasion.
