'HIV, AIDS have reached epidemic levels in Nagaland, Manipur'

The US ConsulGeneral today interacted with village artists involved in spreading awareness about HIV and AIDS.

Scroll-painters (potua) of West Midnapore and Howrah have been involved in a plan to educate villagers about HIV and AIDS, a method already in use in Bengal.

The programme - "Make Arts/Stop AIDS"- organised at the American Center, was attended by Consul General Henry V Jardine, David Gere from the department of world cultures, University of California at Los Angeles, and of the Make Art/Stop AIDS international initiative, and scroll-painters of the twin districts.
The scroll-painters, who use their songs and paintings to spread awareness on AIDS and HIV in their villages, displayed their artwork and sang original songs. While Swarna Chitrakar sang about how HIV virus spreads through use of same syringes, blood transfusion and unsafe sex, Gurupada Chitrakar sang about the stigma that is attached to HIV positive victims. Monimala Chitrakar talked about loving with responsibility through her song and scroll.

Speaking on the occasion, Consul General Jardine said, "It is important that the student and worker communities are involved in the project, so that policies can be implemented in their spheres. To bring the situation under control, youth of the country will have to be contacted."

According to him, the infection has reached the epidemic levels in Nagaland and Manipur. So when small pockets are discovered, it should be addressed immediately in order to prevent the pocket taking an epidemic form.