Our Correspondent
Kohima | May 20
About 389 people have lost their lives to HIV and AIDS in Nagaland since 1990 and about 12879 people are living with the virus till March’2012 as per the data of Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS). This was revealed during the observation of International Candle Light Memorial Service here this evening at The Heritage.
Social activist Niketu Iralu said that HIV and AIDS phenomenon has rapidly grown and become one of the toughest, most complicated health and socio-economic problem of the world. Expressing concern over the crisis of HIV and AIDS confronting our society, Iralu lauded the commitment and dedication of the organisers who are trying to help our society to meet the challenges.
Stating that the candlelight memorial is to remember our loved ones and friends who have died of HIV and AIDS, Iralu said the day is also a moment to show our solidarity, compassion and understanding for those who are positive and for their families.
Touching on the theme of the day “Promoting health & dignity together,” he said it is a good example of tackling a huge problem by reducing it to manageable size. Several people gathered at the service and conveyed their solidarity to light candles and honor the memory of lost friends, to show support for those who are living with the virus, fight stigma associated with the disease, and mobilize individuals with the common goal of responding to the local impact of HIV and AIDS.
“Lightning of candles on this day is a day of remembrance of those who have lost their lives to HIV and AIDS. This day also reminds us that we can stop it and reverse the pandemic,” said Naomi Semy, President NNP+ Secretariat said in an earlier press note. A minute silence and mass lighting of candles marked the service.
Earlier, lighting of service candle was done by Kevilevou, President KNP+. Nagamese Church choir Naga Bazar and RockAware brand ambassador Renbeni Ondyuo presented special numbers while Rev. Pelhousehu Belho said benediction.
The service was organised by Network of Naga People Living With HIV and AIDS (NNP+) in collaboration with partner NGOs working in the field of Drugs & HIV and AIDS and supported by Nagaland State AIDS Control Society and Legislators Forum on AIDS.
