Chandigarh, Aug 12 (PTI) Punjab Governor and UT Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria here on Wednesday launched the Intensified IEC (information education and communication) campaign ‘Break Free’, a mass digital awareness movement on HIV-AIDS.
The campaign, organised by the Chandigarh State AIDS Control Society, Department of Health, Chandigarh Administration, and National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, was launched on International Youth Day.
The “One Scan, One Step Towards Breaking Free” initiative uses a QR code to provide individuals with a confidential HIV self-risk assessment, helping them understand their potential risk, access verified information on HIV, and, where required, connect with appropriate testing, counselling and health services.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said the campaign seeks to equip young people with accurate and scientific information, encourage timely testing and help them access appropriate health services.
He said youth are not merely the future but the present strength of India, and urged them to bring positive social change.
Calling for an end to HIV-related myths and stigma, Kataria said many people living with HIV hesitate to disclose their condition due to fear of judgement and social rejection.
He stressed that they deserve respect, dignity and equal opportunities, not discrimination, and called for an environment where people can seek help and healthcare without fear.
He further called for collective efforts to eliminate HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 through awareness, timely testing, effective treatment and an end to stigma.
The Governor was accompanied by Chandigarh Chief Secretary H Rajesh Prasad; Home-cum-Health Secretary Mandip Singh Brar, Director Health Services Dr Suman Singh; and Project Director Chandigarh State AIDS Control Society Dr Sadbhavna Pandit.
Speaking on the campaign, Mandip Singh Brar said the initiative represents an effective combination of digital technology and public awareness.
He emphasised that the objective is not merely to provide information, but to make people aware of available government schemes, services and support, enabling them to overcome hesitation and seek timely testing, counselling and treatment.
The awareness activities will be undertaken over the next two months across schools, colleges, government departments, markets, public spaces and communities.
During the launch, an awareness video on “Break Free: India’s Trusted Digital Space for All HIV Concerns” was also screened for the audience. PTI SUN NB NB
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