Sikkim endorses ‘Getting to Zero’ theme on AIDS Day

GANGTOK, 01 Dec: Gangtok joined the rest of the world today to observe AIDS Day on this year’s theme, “Getting to Zero - Zero New HIV Infection, Zero Discrimination and Zero AIDS related Deaths”.
To mark the Day, the Sikkim State AIDS Control Society [SSACS] organized a day-long series of activities aimed to generate wider HIV and AIDS awareness among the general public. These events were hosted at the centrally-located space opposite Tourism Department here at MG Marg.

SSACS started the Day with a signature campaign, soliciting endorsement for AIDS awareness. This was inaugurated by the SSACS Project Director, Dr Uttam Pradhan. Students, government officials, members of various organizations and lay people signed the “I support Red Ribbon” banner.
A rally from Deorali to the main venue at MG Marg was also taken out. This was participated by students, SSACS officials and staff, NGO members, Target Intervention partners, SNP+ and local people. The participants carried placards and banners and raised AIDS awareness slogans and covered the route over National Highway 31A.
The day-long programme also included cultural programmes by Red Ribbon Sikkim Star finalists who presented songs, dance and plays themed on HIV and AIDS awarness.
Finally, the World AIDS Day function was concluded with the Candlelight Gathering in the evening.