Significant progress has been made in AIDS control: Maralkar

Distribution of information leaflet during the World AIDS Day programme.

PANAJI

The World AIDS Day 2025 programme organized by the Goa State AIDS Control Society received an excellent response. Chief guests at the event held in Panaji included GOG Secretary for Health, IAS officer Yatindra M. Maralkar, Dr Vandana Dhume, and other health officials.

Addressing the gathering, guidance was given to students on the theme of bringing about a change in the response to AIDS. To create awareness about AIDS across North and South Goa, a tableau was displayed using two vehicles.

Earlier, various health centres and NGOs that actively participated in World AIDS Day programmes were felicitated. “Compared to last year, Goa has made significant progress in AIDS control,” said chief guest Maralkar. He further informed that 177 Red Ribbon Clubs have been started in colleges across the state to spread awareness about AIDS.

Over the past few years, the Goa AIDS Control Society has shown remarkable performance. As a result, the organisation secured the 4th rank in India for HIV control in 2024–25.

“Every citizen must contribute to strengthening HIV control efforts,” said Dr. Vandana Dhume.

Secretary (Health), Yetindra Maralkar, IAS, attended the observance of #WorldAIDSDay2025 State Level function organized by Goa State AIDS Control Society on the theme - "Overcoming Disruption Transforming the AIDS response " at Panaji.

Maralkar flagged off IEC Van on occasion of World AIDS Day 2025 observance.

Project Director GSACS, Dr. Vandana Dhume, Joint Director, IEC, GSACS, Shri. Umakant Sawant and others were also present.