The 2nd edition of Northeast Multi-Media Campaign 2019-20 against HIV/AIDS was held in Imphal on Thursday.
The campaign began with a musical concert at the Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre, Hafta Kangjeibung in Imphal East district.
Manipur health and family welfare minister L Jayentakumar led the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO).
The multi-media campaign was attended by officials of the State AIDS Control Societies from different northeastern states.
The theme of the campaign is ‘North East United against HIV/AIDS’.
The campaign is to capitalize on the popularity of locally popular entertainment channels among the youths while addressing the issues of HIV/AIDS.
The joint director (targeted intervention) of the Manipur State AIDS Control Society, Abhiram Mongjam, talking to reporters on the sidelines of the campaign said the campaign has been organized for the second time in the Northeast.
Apart from understanding the disease through music, one witness various cultural, traditional and musical activities of the region in the campaign, said Mongjam.
“Through music, we are trying to reach the young ones and also to make the youth and young couples to understand how the HIV/AIDS can be prevented through music shows,” he said.
He also said Mizoram, Nagaland and Manipur are some of the states which are badly affected by HIV/AIDS.
On the spot HIV/AIDS testing centre was also opened at the campaign venue.
Apart from the musical bands, about 15-25 people from each northeastern state and a good number of officials from NACO participated in the multi-media campaign.
During the event, each band representing the eight Northeast states was also scheduled to perform two songs – one original song on HIV/AIDS or substance abuse and the second song is the cover song of their choice.
The campaign has been organised by the northeastern states in collaboration with NACO since 2009 to encourage awareness, education, compassion and support for the issue of HIV/AIDS.
The first edition of the campaign was held in Kohima on February 18 earlier this year.