Imphal, May 17: The Australian Government is all set to launch projects to combat HIV/AIDS in four North Eastern States including Manipur.

According to high Commissioner of the Australian High Commission (New Delhi) John McCarthy the projects 'in all probability' would be launched by next month'.

Talking to The Sangai Express on the sideline of his visit to the office of All women and Child Development (AWCD), Manipur at Singjamei Chingamathak this morning, McCarthy said the projects will focus on prevention and care of the pandemic while adding that the project details would be announced during the launch.

The Australian Govt in conjunction with Govt of India and UN AIDS had already funded a five year HIV/AIDS project in the region that commenced in 1994.In addition to HIV/AIDS issue, the Australian Govt has also funded AWCD which is dealing with promotion of women's economy and child development.

Informing that Australia has launched a new scholarship scheme for Indian students, McCarthy also conveyed he would be visiting Assam, Mizoram, Nagaland and Meghalaya States.

AWCD functionaries said the unit having four branches in Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur and Thoubal districts is currently endeavouring promotion of handloom and weaving, and food processing activities.

Comment