Delhi Health Minister calls for united resolve to end discrimination against people with HIV

Delhi Health Minister Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh on Tuesday said the government is committed to both preventive and curative healthcare, adding that doctors are ready, essential medicines are available in state hospitals, and free Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) is also provided to enable HIV-positive individuals to lead healthy lives.

He noted that drug use through shared needles and syringes has contributed to the spread of HIV and called for a united resolve to end discrimination against people living with the virus.

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He said free HIV testing facilities are available at state hospitals and health centres.

Singh on Tuesday launched an information, education, and communication campaign from a hospital in North West Delhi’s Rohini to spread awareness about AIDS prevention, treatment, and stigma reduction.

Dr Singh said the initiative is being carried out under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of their vision for a healthier and more informed country.

The minister shared that the campaign is being run across the country on International Youth Day, with its kick-off starting from the national capital.

Addressing deep-rooted myths and misconceptions about HIV/AIDS in society, Dr Singh said the campaign will also focus on removing them through targeted outreach at the grassroots level.

He said activities such as village-level meetings, folk cultural performances, public rallies, and awareness programmes in schools will take place, ensuring the message reaches every corner of the community in an engaging and relatable manner.

Making a special appeal to the youth, he stated, “You are our strength. Use social media, schools, colleges, and neighbourhood forums to spread correct information about HIV/AIDS and help raise awareness about this infection.”

He urged all citizens to actively participate in awareness activities and make a collective effort to control HIV/ AIDS both in the national capital and across the country.