Awareness camp on HIV, TB & drug abuse

The Chamba Health Department, as part of the International Youth Day campaign, organised an awareness camp at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) Sarol to educate students on HIV/AIDS, drug de-addiction and tuberculosis prevention.

Chamba Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Vipin Thakur said the event featured both an awareness camp and a speech competition. He highlighted the role of youth in combating rising social evils, particularly drug abuse and trafficking and urged students to contribute proactively to society and nation-building.

The District AIDS Control Programme Officer, Dr Harit Puri, sensitised students on the risks, symptoms and prevention of HIV/AIDS, drug use and TB. He said while HIV/AIDS remains incurable, awareness and early testing are the best defences. Dr Puri encouraged regular health check-ups and voluntary HIV testing.

He noted in Chamba district, HIV testing for pregnant women is a priority and free integrated counselling and testing centre (ICTC) services are available at Bharmour, Chamba, Chuari and Kihar. He assured students all test results are kept confidential and informed them about the toll-free AIDS helpline number 1097, run by the AIDS Control Society and the Government of India.

A speech competition was also conducted on the occasion. Pratishtha won first prize, Vartika came second and Monica secured third place, with two students receiving consolation prizes.