Hats doffed to people living with HIV
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 18 2025: The Overcomers, in association with several organisations, observed the International AIDS Candle Light Memorial across five districts - Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching and Chandel.

The observance at Imphal West was organised with the assistance of the Reborn Foundation.

Recreation, an alcohol and drug abuse treatment centre hosted the event at Imphal East.

Peace Drug Deaddiction Centre hosted the event at Khangabok Awang Leikai, Thoubal district.

First Step Treatment Centre, Kakching Irum Lamdong hosted the event for Kakching district.

Right Living Deaddiction Centre of Mayang Imphal organised the event with volunteers of Salemthar village for Chandel district.

Hats doffed to people living with HIV

Held under the theme "We Remember, We Rise, We Lead", the observance remembered people lost to AIDS and honoured the struggle and resilience of people living with HIV .

Approximately 39.9 million people were living with HIV globally in 2023, and 42.3 million have died from AIDS-related illness, according to Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS).

The International AIDS Candle Light Memorial observance across the districts underscored the impact of the epidemic on individuals and communities, and acknowledged the strength of those who are fighting against it.

The event celebrated the advancement in AIDS treatment and prevention, and the hope that individuals can live full and healthy lives despite living with HIV.

It called for mobilizing collective and continued action and leadership in the fight against HIV/AIDS with renewed advocacy, political will and community involvement in preventing the spread of the virus.

It also called for enhanced access to care, and reduction of stigma associated with the epidemic in order to lead towards a future where AIDS is no longer a global threat.

Locals, youths, volunteers and well-wishers attended memorials.

The gatherings lit virtual candles in memory of loved ones, relatives, friends, colleagues and pioneers in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

A two minute silence was observed as a token of paying tributes to departed victims of AIDS.

The programmes ended with a serenity prayer of Reinhold Niebuhr.

The Manipur Network of Positive People (MNP+) also observed the 40th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Day at MDU Hall at Yaiskul Police Lane today.

Held under the theme "We Remember, We Rise, We Lead", the programme was graced by Medical Superintendent of JNIMS Dr Kh Lokeshwar as chief guest, MNP+ general secretary Salam Udita as president and MACS Deputy Director (Prevention Division) Dr W Joyson, Deputy Director (CST) Dr S Jupiter, Deputy Director (SI&IEC) Dr Teresa H and Deputy Director (Store) Dr Beema H as guests of honour.

At the event, Dr Lokeshwar stated that while people with AIDS used to die prematurely, advancements now allow for control of the HIV virus.

The spread of HIV/AIDS has declined significantly, he said and added that the plan to eliminate the disease by 2030, as outlined by UNAIDS and other organizations, requires massive support from the people.

During the event, attendees paid tributes to those who had succumbed to the disease by offering floral tributes and lighting candles.

Nirvana Foundation also observed the same programme at Khurai Tinsid Road.