Call for rehabilitation of orphans with AIDS
Our Correspondent
Kohima | May 7
Nagaland today observed the World AIDS Orphans Day under the theme “Your voice … their future” which was organized by the Network of Kohima District People Living with HIV/AIDS (KNP+) and supported by Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS).
Observing the day at the LCS Building, Banuo Z. Jamir, Additional Chief Secretary and Commissioner said that “cases of children left in orphanages may not be abandonment perse,” but added that economic reasons could also play a part in it.
She said that the customs and traditions of our society could provide a strong social net for this vulnerable group but considering the impact of current socio-economic trends, there needs to be sensitizing of the community to their social requirements. She advocated support by the state government through relevant programmes which should not make the beneficiaries dependent but become self-sufficient and reliant.
She also opined possible ways for assisting the families and orphans as; special educational stipend programme for all levels, special health coverage under the labor department, coverage under the BPL programme- Annapurna and support from Legislators Forum for HIV/AIDS and NACO.
Jamir also encouraged the members to continue giving their best and be a source of encouragement not only to those in similar conditions but to the community as a whole.
Yhuni, President of KNP+ thanked each and every individual for their presence on the occasion and urged them to “raise our voice together.” She also asked the gathering to join its pledge by asking the government to direct at least 10 % of the overall HIV and AIDS funding to support orphans with AIDS and vulnerable children.
Stating that the needs of children affected by AIDS are being neglected, Yhuni said “Despite progress in funding prevention and treatment of AIDS, we are ignoring the basic needs of millions of vulnerable children.”
“Wherein our Network itself has 88 HIV infected and affected children; few resources are reaching them and the communities that provide the front-line response; even though they provide the vast majority of care and support to orphaned and vulnerable children,” the KNP+ President said. She added that a generation would be lost if the people do not take urgent measures to support the basic rights of children, and the families and communities that care for them. “We can fight AIDS if we organize a long term response supported by strong political will,” Yhuni said.
Children orphaned by AIDS are just the tip of the iceberg. Over 95% of children affected by AIDS, including orphans, continue to live with their extended families and NGOs like NMA where there is no fund for them. However, these families are increasingly overwhelmed by poverty and struggle to protect and raise the children in their care, she said.
“These innocent children need contributions from the community in providing them a home and a new family which can give them unconditional love,” Yhuni said adding that a little of our sacrifices can go a long way for these little angels who need hope more than anyone.
“Join us in action for those who otherwise do not have a voice. We cannot emphasize the need and desperation of these precious children but together we can make a difference in their life,” Jhuni added.
