Azo urges NGOs to perform well
Our Correspondent
Kohima | May 25
The Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) has increased the volume of its service coverage relating to HIV/AIDS by launching five more Mobile ICTC (Integrated Counselling & Testing Centres) for Peren, Phek, Kiphire, Wokha and Zunheboto, here this morning.
“I am happy that the NSACS has managed to get five more mobile ICTC for the state which will now complete coverage of all the high prevalence districts,” Minister for health & family welfare, Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, said while flagging off the Mobile ICTC here at the High School Junction.
The Minister said the Mobile ICTC will provide counselling and testing services, STD services, condom demonstration and distribution, anti-natal clinic services, immunisation, IEC activities and Prevention of Parent to Child Transmission (PPTCT) services. He said all those services can be rendered through Mobile ICTC and mobile medical unit in coordination with the NRHM.
Nagaland is projected to have 19,000 PLHAs; however, presently 7,826 PLHAs only have been tested positive till date, he said. Stating that it had already set up 5 mobile ICTCs for Kohima, Dimapur, Mokokchung, Tuensang and Mon earlier this year, the Minister expressed his happiness that these units are functioning well and that the far-flung villagers are being reached with such services.
Also stating that these mobile units would be implemented through NGOs, he said, “I am sure collaboration with the NGOs will give better coverage as they are from the local area and know the people.” Stating that there is a great task ahead of the NGOs, he asked them to perform well. “I am sure with your experience and dedication you will be able to contribute to the national goal of halting and reversing the epidemic of HIV/AIDS in our state,” Azo said.
Dr. Kumuni Kathipri, Director for family welfare, in her speech said that HIV/AIDS is preventable and treatable, and stressed on the need for access to the various services that are available. Referring to the launching of the mobile ICTC, she believed that it would go a long way in the nation’s goal of reversing the epidemic of HIV/AIDS by 2012. The function was chaired by Menukhol John, Commissioner and Secretary for health & family welfare.
