Shimla, December 1: On the 37th World AIDS Day, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the 'Car Bin' initiative to promote HIV awareness and cleanliness. In its first phase, 4,000 taxis will receive free car bins, with plans to cover all 30,000 taxis in the state gradually.
Highlighting efforts to combat HIV, the CM revealed that 234 testing camps had screened 5.92 lakh individuals between January 2023 and October 2024. Additionally, the state has 55 testing and counseling centers and two mobile testing units providing free HIV services.
The CM introduced a "3G Formula"—Get Aware, Get Tested, and Get Victory Over HIV—urging youth to adopt it and encourage voluntary testing. Currently, 5,897 individuals are receiving free treatment through anti-retroviral therapy (ART) centers.
Expressing concern over drug abuse and its link to HIV, he stressed the need for community-driven awareness and an end to stigma. "HIV is not just a health challenge but a socio-economic issue," Sukhu said, calling for united efforts to ensure an HIV-free Himachal.
Health Minister Dr. (Col) Dhani Ram Shandil reaffirmed the government’s commitment to awareness campaigns, particularly in rural areas, and announced a toll-free helpline (1097) for accurate HIV information.
The CM also flagged off an awareness marathon from Oak Over to Peterhoff, where cultural programs promoting HIV awareness concluded the event.
