Gurgaon, September 27, 2023. In response to the heightened vulnerability of long-distance truckers to HIV/AIDS, Varuna Group initiates a comprehensive campaign aimed at promoting safe sex practices and awareness within this community. Partnering with AHF India Cares, a global non-profit foundation, Varuna Group will provide support for Free HIV testing, awareness initiatives, and free condom distribution. The campaign includes a series of awareness sessions and HIV/Syphilis testing across India, with a primary focus on long-haul drivers. Varuna Group's trailers have been adorned with striking HIV/AIDS awareness graphics to visually reinforce the message, and trucks carrying this prevention message will traverse the country, reaching people in different districts.
Dr. V. Sam Prasad, Country Program Director of AHF India Cares, said, ‘The Trucking community has considerably expanded in the current Post COVID era with the markets seeing a surge of companies in the “Logistics and Supply chain” sector. Most of these new generation Truckers are Young and have limited access to resources like Free Condoms that will empower them to prevent acquiring HIV/STI infections. Access to Free HIV testing among Long Distance Trucking community at their workplace, in the presence of PEERS and colleagues removes inhibitions and stigma. The 'Suraksha Chune, Swasth Rahe' campaign aims to bring awareness to the Trucking community on prevention of HIV/STI infections, provide them with FREE CONDOMS and train them to further train the young truck drivers that enter their fraternity”.
Mr Vivek Juneja, Managing Director, Varuna Group, expressed, "We are committed to making a lasting impact on the lives of long-haul drivers and their communities. Through our collaboration with AHF India Cares and our concerted efforts to raise awareness and promote safe sex practices, we aim to empower drivers with the knowledge and resources they need, to protect themselves and their partners. By promoting cautious sexual behaviour and highlighting safe sex practices among drivers, the initiative aims to create a ripple effect that extends to the wider community, ultimately stemming the spread of HIV/AIDS".
The campaign debuted in Dharuhera with training sessions on HIV risks, awareness, and free HIV treatment for those found HIV positive. Bareilly was the second hub to participate, with enthusiastic engagement from truckers. AHF India Cares will provide free antiretroviral therapy for individuals infected with HIV in their "PEOPLES' CLINICS," emphasizing their commitment to those living with HIV.
