Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 26: The Andaman & Nicobar AIDS Control Society (ANACS) launched an Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Van equipped with a backlit glow signboard carrying key messages on HIV & AIDS awareness on 25 February 2026.
The IEC Van was flagged off by Ms. Vandana Rao, IAS, Secretary (Health), Andaman & Nicobar Administration. The van, fitted with illuminated display boards and a public address system, aims to disseminate accurate and timely information directly to people in both rural and urban areas across the South Andaman Island.
The programme was organized under the leadership of Dr. Subrata Saha, Project Director, ANACS. He emphasized that through collective effort and active community participation, we can move closer to the goal of eliminating HIV & AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. By reaching people where they live and work, the campaign seeks to promote responsible behaviour, encourage early testing, and foster a supportive attitude towards People Living with HIV (PLHIV).
The six-day campaign, which began on 25 February 2026 and will continue till 2 March 2026, is being conducted daily from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. along designated routes. The campaign focuses on spreading awareness about modes of HIV transmission and prevention, the importance of HIV testing, and the treatment and care services available for PLHIV.
On the occasion, the Annual Newsletter 2024–25 of ANACS was also formally released. The newsletter highlights the year-round programmes, awareness initiatives, and key achievements of ANACS in the prevention, control, care and treatment of HIV & AIDS.
Doctors from the Directorate of Health Services, officials of ANACS, and media representatives were present at the function. The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Jahanara Yasmeen, Deputy Director (MS & IEC), ANACS.
