A three-month long integrated health campaign of the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS) in East Jaintia Hills district concluded today.
MACS in collaboration with the district administration, District Medical & Health Officer and other line departments conducted the health campaign in the entire district to reach out to the high-risk population and the vulnerable population.
A closing function was held at the premises of the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Khliehriat, which as attended by Cabinet Minister Kyrmen Shylla and Chairman Meghalaya State Health Advisory Board and Nongpoh MLA, MayralbornSyiem as guests.
Addressing the gathering, Shylla said the campaign is a testament to the effectiveness of collaboration and stressed that at present, addressing the complexity of health challenges requires multifaceted solutions.
Syiem emphasized that integrated health campaigns should extend to other districts as well and requested the MACS to organize a similar one in the Ri-Bhoi district. He pointed out that the district shares a similar demographic profile when it comes to HIV/AIDS.
Expressing concern about the rising cases of drug trafficking in the State, particularly in East Jaiñtia Hills, Syiem urged school and college students to steer clear from drugs. He encouraged them to collaborate and engage in activities that have a positive impact on society, even in the face of challenges like unemployment. “As legislators we will do our best to implement policies aimed at increasing job opportunities for the youth in the private sector within the state”, he added.
A pledge to combat HIV, stigmatization and discrimination was also taken by all participants at the programme.
A mobile ICTC van was released and recognition awards was presented to various medical teams from health facilities, NGOs, partner link workers, TLS, SETU, 1 LT, SURE, SACS field teams, Bansara Eye Care, Nethralaya, National Institute of Paramedical Technology, colleges, District Social Welfare Office, Block Development Officer, MHIS, headmen, Kyrmen Foundation and cement factories. Additionally, awards were also presented to DISHA Khliehriat and medical officers.
