IT News
April 1,
Manipur presently has the highest HIV prevalence rate in India. The state is experiencing an alarming rise in HIV/AIDS patients of which people below 30 years of age are forming a majority. In order to address the concern, a mega health awareness campaign ‘WE CARE’ is being conducted by 10 Sector Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (South) at multiple remote locations in Ukhrul and Kamjong districts. The aim of the campaign is to carry out screening for HIV/AIDS and create awareness amongst the masses. As part of the campaign, free medical treatment and consultation is also provided to the villagers of remote areas along the border where requisite medical facilities are not available.
The campaign is centered around screening, detection, counseling and follow up of medical care for HIV patients. A joint team of doctors and counselors from Assam Rifles, Manipur Aids Control Society (MACS), district authorities and BSF conducted HIV screening and awareness campaign for the villagers at Halang on 31 March 2019 by Somsai Battalion and a similar campaign will be conducted at Lambui on 01 April by Shangshak Battalion. The counselors from MACS educated the audience on prevention of HIV/AIDS and ills of drug abuse. Also arrangements have been made for conduct of regular counseling sessions and free distribution of medicines to HIV positive patients.
In addition to HIV screening, the campaign also provided free medical consultation and treatment including screening for life style diseases such as High BP, diabetes etc. Apart from providing necessary medical assistance, basic know how on immunization, health education, hygiene and sanitation were also imparted. Keeping in view the upcoming monsoons, an interactive session was also organized about Malaria and other water borne diseases.
In order to assist remote border villages of Kamjong District, Chassad Battalion conducted a basic healthcare training for the locals at Nampisha with an aim to enable the villagers from remote borders to attain self dependency and ability to administer effective medical aid. The training covered first aid in case of fractures, head injury, burns and snake bites.The aim was to educate and train local youth in Golden Hour Management and provide immediate first aid to the patient until doctors arrive. Lecture was conducted on AIDS awareness. Locals were advised on ill effects of liquor consumption and drug abuse. It was followed by medical camp to provide medical succor to the locals.
The campaign received overwhelming response from the local populace and was a major success in building inroads between security forces, district administration and locals in remote areas.
