New Delhi, December 04, 2023: In a significant move marking World AIDS Day, Manforce Condoms, a prominent brand under Mankind Pharma, has joined forces with SAATHII NGO to launch the #SafeTiesToSaveLives campaign. The initiative is a dedicated effort to support India's commitment to eradicate HIV/AIDS by 2030. This collaborative campaign seeks to break the prevalent taboo surrounding HIV/AIDS in society and empower communities living with the virus.
Aligned with the theme of 'Let Communities Lead', the campaign focuses on establishing enduring connections with communities to disseminate valuable information that can contribute to saving lives. Recognizing the persistent societal resistance to discussions about HIV/AIDS, the campaign aims to normalize conversations around safe sex and eliminate prejudice.
The #SafeTiesToSaveLives campaign involves comprehensive on-ground activities designed to build strong bonds with communities. The primary objective is to enhance access to family planning counseling and services, particularly for women living with HIV. By fostering trust, innovation, and effective service implementation, the initiative is concentrated on empowering vulnerable groups and promoting awareness.
The campaign, initiated in select cities, will expand its activities to cover 50 districts, ensuring widespread awareness among the masses. To enhance the receptiveness of the message, Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) kits are being distributed, sensitizing communities on family planning, healthy living with HIV, and the rights of People Living with HIV (PLHIV) as per the HIV/AIDS Act 2017. Additionally, felicitation programs are being organized to recognize the efforts of women community leaders providing services to HIV+ pregnant women.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajeev Juneja, Vice Chairman & Managing Director at Mankind Pharma Ltd. said, “To witness a change in the world, it is very important to bring about a change in the communities. On similar lines, to bring about a positive change in the perception of people around sensitive issues such as HIV/AIDS, it is imperative to drive awareness at the grassroot level to steer them clear of any prejudice related to the disease. Along with this, such initiatives help empower the affected communities to stay abreast of their rights to live a responsible and respectful life.”
Elaborating on the same, Dr. Sathish Kumar, Country Director at SAATHII said, “We have observed that in several situations, People Living with HIV are unaware of their legal rights and also lack the information needed to plan their family. In order to support them get access to a quality life, it is important to conduct such on-ground activities at regular intervals to shape the change we expect to see in society.”
To amplify the reach of the campaign, a compelling video has been disseminated across various social media platforms. This strategic approach aims to forge an unbreakable bond with the audience, fostering a progressive society that is better informed and aware of the challenges related to HIV/AIDS. The ongoing and future endeavors of Manforce Condoms and SAATHII reflect a commitment to addressing public health concerns and contributing to a healthier, more informed society.