Namchi, June 23 (IPR): A review meeting on the implementation of programmes under the Sikkim State AIDS Control Society (SACS) was held at the District Administrative Centre (DAC), Namchi, today, under the chairmanship of the District Collector, Namchi, Ms. Anupa Tamling.
The meeting reviewed the implementation of various HIV/AIDS prevention, testing, treatment, and care services being carried out across the district through the District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit.
During the meeting, Dr. Pratik Rasaily, District AIDS Control Officer (DACO), Namchi, presented a PowerPoint presentation highlighting the district's progress under the HIV/AIDS Control Programme. He briefed the committee on HIV counselling and testing services, surveillance activities, and the status of People Living with HIV (PLHIV) receiving Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in the district.
The presentation also included block-wise updates on ART beneficiaries and emphasised the importance of early diagnosis, timely treatment, adherence to therapy, and sustained awareness to prevent new HIV infections and improve the quality of life of affected individuals.
Addressing the meeting, the District Collector appreciated the efforts of the Health Department in implementing HIV prevention and control initiatives across the district. She urged all stakeholder departments and organisations to strengthen awareness activities, promote voluntary HIV testing, reduce stigma and discrimination, and work collectively to ensure better access to treatment and support services for people living with HIV.
Present in today's meeting was DRCHO Namchi Dr BK Chauhan, CEO Education Mr GP Sharma, Dr Sunita Thapa (DNO) NTCP Namchi District, AD (Education) Mr Tilak Kumar Chettri, Assistant Professor Ms Diki Choden Bhutia along with representatives from the Health and Line departments.