Hekali Zhimomi, IAS launches the National Red Run 3.0 held at Agri-expo, 4th Mile, Chümoukedima on October 30. (DIPR Photo)
Young people called to ‘be advocates and leaders’ in HIV Fight
Chümoukedima, October 30 (MExN): Nagaland joined the nationwide movement against HIV and AIDS by hosting the Red Run 3.0 at the Agri Expo, 4th Mile, Chümoukedima on October 30.
The event, organised by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) in collaboration with the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) and the state's Health & Family Welfare Department, saw 528 participants, including 136 athletes from 35 states and union territories, stated a DIPR report.
Delivering the keynote address, Hekali Zhimomi, IAS, Additional Secretary & Director General, NACO, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, underscored the vital role of young people in raising awareness about HIV and promoting overall health during an event organized under the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) initiative.
Hekali encouraged people to “speak out, spread awareness, and reach out to their peers,” emphasizing that empowering the youth with accurate knowledge and essential life skills enables them to make informed and healthy choices.
Highlighting India’s demographic strength, she noted that over 40% of the population is under the age of 29, making it imperative to ensure their well-being. “At NACO, we believe that young people are not just beneficiaries of health programmes but also advocates and leaders,” she said, urging them to take initiative in promoting HIV awareness and healthy lifestyles.
Citing the India HIV Estimates 2023, Hekali pointed out that around 2.5 million people in the country are currently living with HIV, including both adults and children. She voiced concern about rising substance use and unsafe relationships that heightened vulnerability to HIV infection.
She further called for an end to discrimination against people living with HIV, stressing that every individual deserves access to quality healthcare and to live with dignity.
Applauding the youth volunteers, she added, “It is the responsibility of every student and institution to keep the flame of awareness alive — stay fit, stay healthy, and keep our young people safe.”
Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister, conveyed the regrets of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who could not attend due to “an unavoidable commitment.”
Addressing the athletes, Metha emphasised that they were not only sportsmen but also ambassadors of awareness in the fight against HIV and AIDS. “Through your participation, you are helping to carry the message of health, unity, and social responsibility,” he said.
Underscoring the power of sports to unite people, Metha remarked, “Sport doesn’t know any language, caste, or background. The language of sport is universal, and the only route to success is hard work.” He urged young athletes to remain dedicated, saying, “In sport, there is no shortcut. Only merit, hard work, and perseverance lead to the podium.”
“Today, Nagaland has become India, every state of the country is represented here. Each one of you is contributing to national progress, unity, and brotherhood.
In his welcome address, Anoop Khinchi, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary of H&FW and Chairman of NSACS, described the marathon as “not just about running, but running with purpose.”
He stated that the event aims to “break stigma, spread knowledge, and promote prevention,” while empowering the youth. Khinchi also commended the officials from 34 states and UTs, noting their participation symbolises a “unified national commitment” to an AIDS-free India.
In the men's category, Panchanan Bera from West Bengal secured the first position, followed by Rohan Kumar from Uttar Pradesh and Ramjan Ali from West Bengal. In the women's category, Anisha from Uttarakhand bagged the top prize, with Pournami from Kerala and Pooja from Punjab finishing second and third, respectively.
