Shillong, Oct 27: The State Level Red Ribbon Youth Festival 2026 and the Samman Samaroh Award Ceremony organized by Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS) was held today at U Soso Tham Auditorium, Shillong was attended by Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma.
Speaking during the occasion Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, said that Meghalaya is currently facing a high HIV/AIDS rate with numbers increasing annually and said, “There is an urgent need for all of us to work together and its not just the Meghalaya Aids Control Society, the health department or the government but it is the responsibility and the participation of every citizen that will help us to ensure that we are able to control this before it gets more difficult in the days to come.”
The Chief Minister outlined the strategic plan of the state government in a five-year mission mode to combat rising HIV/AIDS rates through significant funding and a multi-sectoral approach. “The state government has initiated a five-year mission with an initial budget of Rs 25 Crs,” he said and informed that the strategy follows the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets framework that is identifying positive cases, providing antiviral medication and ensuring viral suppression.
“An all-of-government approach is being adopted, involving the entire government machinery rather than just the AIDS Control Society or the health department and the entire government machinery is committed to supporting the mission across all levels of administration,” he said. He also informed that current efforts include addressing drug issues and adapting strategies through continuous improvement and support.
On the treatment the Chief Minister said that antiviral medications are available to suppress the virus and prevent its spread and the mission plan focuses on testing and providing the HIV positives with continuous medication through comfortable systems and mechanisms.
On social objectives and youth engagement the Chief Minister said a primary goal is to reduce stigma through the message that its “okay” to test and “okay” to seek treatment. “Reducing the stigma surrounding HIV and drug abuse is essential for encouraging people to reach out,” he said and also informed that the mission seeks to empower youth to make informed decisions regarding peer pressure and personal safety.
Referring to the youth who are considered the state’s most important stakeholders the Chief Minister informed that the mission aims to provide guidance and support to the youth and encouraged young people to trust their instincts and feel comfortable saying no to unsafe situations.
South Garo Hills received the Surakshit District Award, while Ialong CH received the Best Performing ART Centre for commendable performance in delivering ART services to PLHIV and Mihmyntdu Community Social Welfare Association, West Jaintia Hills received the Best Performing TI during the occasion.
The Red Ribbon Youth Festival brings young people into the State’s HIV/AIDS response as peer educators and advocates in schools, colleges and villages. Winners of different events and competitions held during the festival were also awarded by the Chief Minister during the occasion.
