Red Ribbon Club of Don Bosco College Kohima in collaboration with the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS), organised an HIV & AIDS awareness drive on February 25.
KOHIMA, February 25 (MExN): In response to Nagaland recording the second-highest adult HIV prevalence rate in the country, the Red Ribbon Club of Don Bosco College Kohima, in collaboration with the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS), organised an HIV & AIDS awareness drive under the theme “Surmounting Stigma, Leveling the Path.” It was held at Old NST, Main Town Area, Kohima on February 25.
The event guest speaker, Dr M Nukshisangla Jamir, Joint Director of Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS), drew attention to the alarming prevalence of HIV in the state, revealing that Nagaland’s adult HIV prevalence rate stands at approximately 1.36 to 1.37% significantly higher than the national average of 0.21%.
This places Nagaland among the Indian states with the highest HIV burden, Dr Jamir stated while addressing a student gathering.
She outlined the origin and spread of HIV and AIDS, explained preventive measures, and emphasised the critical need for early testing and treatment.
“Awareness needs to go beyond knowledge, it must lead to acceptance, empathy, and action,” Dr Jamir told the student audience.
A segment titled “My Chronicles” featured members of the K&P Organisation, Kohima, who shared personal testimonies of living with HIV. They courageously narrated their lived experiences of living with HIV, shedding light on the discrimination and stigma they encounter. The members called upon students to foster empathy, inclusivity and social responsibility.
Neilanuo Sachü, 1st Runner-up of Miss Kohima 2025, led the HIV & AIDS pledge, reaffirming the collective commitment to a stigma-free society and solidarity with those affected.
The event also included creative performances by the DBCK Choir and Dance Crew, presenting pieces such as “Heal the World” and “Message in Action” to convey messages of hope, unity and advocacy.
In his concluding remarks, Club Coordinator Bendang Jamir emphasised that awareness must translate into action and that young people play a crucial role in shaping a compassionate and informed society.
The programme concluded with a special prayer by Rev Fr Tious Varghese SDB, Principal of Don Bosco College Kohima, invoking strength and blessings for the HIV & AIDS community. The initiative marked a significant step in reinforcing collective efforts to break stigma and promote understanding in the fight against HIV & AIDS.
