Mangan, Dec 1: The World AIDS Day programme was successfully conducted at District Hospital Mangan today, organized by the ICTC Cell.
The event brought together key dignitaries, healthcare personnel, legal representatives, and community members with the objective of raising awareness on HIV/AIDS and strengthening public health initiatives. This year’s observance was held under the global theme “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response.”
The programme was graced by the presence of Senior Dr. T.R. Subba of District Hospital Mangan, the Civil Judge–cum–Judicial Magistrate of Chungthang, the Civil Judge–cum–Judicial Magistrate of Mangan, the Panel Advocate from the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), and the District Medical Superintendent (DMS). The event was hosted by DHE Mr. Rinchen Namgyal Bhutia, who ensured the smooth coordination of the day’s proceedings.
The programme commenced with a flag-hoisting for the bike rally ceremony led by Senior Dr. T. R. Subba, honoring the local riders participating in the awareness activities.
This was followed by a welcome address by DACO/DTO Dr. Dawa, who highlighted the significance of World AIDS Day and emphasized this year’s theme: “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response.”
An in-depth awareness session on HIV/AIDS was conducted by DACO/DTO Dr. Dawa. In her session, she elaborated on:
• the modes of HIV transmission and prevention,
• the current HIV burden in the district and state,
• the socio-economic impact of HIV/AIDS on individuals and communities, and
• the relevance of the 2025 theme “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response”, stressing the need for collective effort, resilience, and innovation in strengthening HIV prevention and treatment services.
The programme proceeded with a cake-cutting ceremony with the chief guests, followed by an engaging skit on HIV/AIDS presented by the ICTC Cell, effectively conveying messages on awareness, prevention, and stigma reduction.
An interactive quiz competition was organised by the DTO to enhance public understanding of HIV/AIDS, with winners receiving prizes during a prize distribution ceremony.
A series of informative talks enriched the programme. The Panel Advocate Mr Singhi Dadul Lachungpa from DLSA, spoke on District Legal Aid Services.
Ms. Sharmista Sigdel, Civil Judge–cum–Judicial Magistrate, Chungthang, briefed the audience on Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) procedures and public rights.
Ms. Essa Pradhan, Civil Judge–cum–Judicial Magistrate Mangan, delivered insights on SADA and NDPS Acts, highlighting legal provisions related to substance abuse.
Mr. Ashish Tamang, ATF Counsellor, addressed the gathering on the services provided by the Addiction Treatment Facility under District Hospital Mangan.
Earlier, a bike rally carrying the message of this year’s theme was organised to mark the occasion. The rally saw active participation from Vital Riders Motorcycle Club, Northern Riders Motorcycle Club and Wild Rode (Lady riders Club).
The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Ms. Bhumika Chettri, ICTC Counselor, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, and organizers. A group photo session marked the formal closure of the event.
The World AIDS Day programme at District Hospital Mangan was meaningful, informative, and impactful, reflecting the district’s continued commitment to public health awareness and aligning with the 2025 theme “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response.”