Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug 12: On the occasion of “International Youth Day” on 12th August 2026 Andaman and Nicobar AIDS Control Society launched Intensified IEC Campaign 3.0 at the Auditorium of Tagore Government College of Education (TGCE), Sri Vijaya Puram.
The programme was graced by Dr. H. M. Siddaraju, Director of Health Services, A&N Administration, as the Chief Guest, in the presence of Dr. Subrata Saha, Project Director, A&N AIDS Control Society. Red Ribbon Club (RRC) Nodal Officers from various colleges and more than 300 students from across the Islands participated in the programme.
The Intensified IEC Campaign aims to strengthen awareness among young people and communities about HIV, AIDS and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), with a focus on routes of transmission, prevention, HIV testing, available health services, breakfree platform and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. The campaign will also address myths, misconceptions, stigma and discrimination associated with HIV and AIDS.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. H. M. Siddaraju highlighted the continuing global impact of HIV/AIDS and emphasized the importance of Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities in bringing about positive behavioural change among youth. He stressed that communication on HIV and AIDS should never stop, as open discussion can help identify appropriate solutions. He also advised young people to seek reliable guidance from parents and teachers rather than depending solely on information available through social media.
In his keynote address, Dr. Subrata Saha, Project Director, A&N AIDS Control Society, elaborated on the objectives of the Intensified IEC Campaign. He stated that International Youth Day was chosen for the launch of IIC 3.0 as young people are an important and vulnerable population, while also having the potential to become powerful agents of change when equipped with accurate knowledge and information. He further emphasized that youth can contribute not only as beneficiaries of HIV prevention programmes but also as leaders and ambassadors in spreading awareness among their peers and communities.
Earlier, Dr. Jahanara Yasmeen, Deputy Director (MS & IEC), welcomed the gathering and outlined the significance of the programme.
As part of the event, appreciation certificates were presented to Red Ribbon Club Nodal Officers from colleges and few departments in recognition of their commendable contribution towards HIV and AIDS awareness activities within their respective institutions. A folk performance by Balakrishna Nritya Academy also conveyed important messages on HIV and AIDS through an engaging cultural presentation.
An Orientation and Capacity-Building Workshop on the Prevention and Control of HIV & AIDS was also conducted by ANACS for the youth members of the Red Ribbon Clubs, with the objective of enhancing their knowledge and strengthening their capacity to disseminate accurate information on HIV prevention, testing, treatment and available services among their peers and communities.
The programme brought together the health sector, educational institutions, government departments, RRC Nodal Officers and youth in a collective effort towards building a healthier, informed and stigma-free society in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mr. Arup Kumar Roy, Deputy Director (Prevention).
