Imphal, April 28: Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh has stated that the problem of HIV/AIDS in Ukhrul district has become alarming with four out of every 100 pregnant mothers affected by the dreaded virus.

Addressing the one-day political advocacy on HIV/AIDS at Congress Bhavan here today, Ibobi said according to reports of the intelligence and health department the problem of HIV/AIDS in Churachandpur district has come down.

But it has been on the rise in Ukhrul district with four pregnant mothers out of every 100 affected.

If the figure has been not been inflated to extract more fund, it should be taken seriously and all out efforts should be made to contain the spread of the disease, Ibobi said.

He announced that henceforth all the party workers would be putting in extra efforts to combat the menace on a war footing.

Even if Congress party may not be able to uproot the disease at one go, nonetheless, they would join hands in this endeavour, Ibobi added.

While observing that thorough testing are being conducted on Indians to ensure that they are not HIV/AIDS patients at the Airport before allowing them to enter a foreign country, the Chief Minister said it would be very unfortunate for the students of Manipur if such measures are taken up on students of the State when they go out of Manipur to study.

Stating that prevention is better than cure, the Chief Minister further observed that HIV/AIDS patients and their family members should not try to cover up but seek counselling from the competent authorities to save their lives of their dear and near ones.

The Chief Minister claimed that SPF Government has been able to utilise the allocated plan amount during the last financial year effectively.

Almost cent per cent of the plan amount allotted had been expended on various developmental works, he said.

He further claimed that Centre has faith on the SPF Government that it would bring about some visible changes in the socio-economic development of Manipur.

Panchayat and other local bodies would be given power to start working for the development from the grassroots level, he assured.

Lok Sabha MP Dr T Meinya who attended the function as guest of honour said even if it is a world wide problem, Congress party is committed to eradication of HIV/AIDS as has been enumerated in the election manifestos.

Giving the key note address, Health Minister L Nandakumar said HIV/AIDS has made enroute even to the remote and far flung area and called upon all the people to made concerted efforts fighting the menace.

MPCC (I) president Gaikhangam presided over the function attention by many party workers, office bearers, MLAs and Ministers.

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