Several officials, NGO activists and sex workers took part in 30 International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Day rally organised on the beach road on Sunday under the aegis of District AIDS Prevention and Control Committee.
The aim of the programme was to express solidarity with people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA). The theme of this year is ‘in solidarity’. The day is organised by about 1,200 community organisations in 115 countries. It is coordinated by the Global Network of People Living with HIV to raise awareness on HIV, stand together with PLHA and remember loved ones who lost their lives due to HIV/AIDS.
Additional District Medical & Health Officer (AIDS & Leprosy) Dr. Ronanki Ramesh said they were trying to raise the awareness level while instilling confidence in PLHA to live with dignity and avail treatment being extended at various hospitals.