Shillong, August 12, 2026: Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla on Wednesday launched the Statewide Intensified IEC Campaign 3.0 during an HIV/AIDS awareness programme organised by the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS) at Lady Keane College Hall in Shillong.
The programme, held alongside the observance of International Youth Day, aims to strengthen awareness, prevention, testing and treatment related to HIV/AIDS across Meghalaya.
Addressing the gathering, Shylla urged people to reject discrimination against persons living with HIV and extend support by encouraging testing, timely treatment and proper care.
He stressed that the fight against HIV cannot be the responsibility of MACS alone and requires the collective involvement of the Health Department, other government departments, educational institutions, local communities, civil society organisations, healthcare workers, parents, teachers and young people.
The Health Minister said the Meghalaya Government remains committed to ensuring that the State’s HIV response is accessible, inclusive, evidence-based and people-centred.
He also called upon stakeholders to take the initiative beyond the two-month campaign period and transform it into a broader statewide movement focused on awareness, prevention, testing, treatment and dignity.
Shylla said HIV awareness messages must reach villages, schools, colleges, households, hospitals and communities so that people are not afraid to know their HIV status and no one faces discrimination because of it.
He added that young people must be equipped with accurate information and knowledge to protect their health.
The Minister also informed that the State Government has approved a five-year plan to further strengthen Meghalaya’s response to HIV/AIDS.
Highlighting the importance of youth participation, Shylla said around 51 per cent of Meghalaya’s population is below 20 years of age, making young people an important part of health awareness and prevention initiatives.
He encouraged students and Red Ribbon Clubs in colleges across the State to actively participate in HIV/AIDS awareness activities and spread accurate information among their peers and communities.
Shylla congratulated the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society, Project Director Dr. K. L. Iawbor, field functionaries and partner organisations for organising the campaign.
He also appreciated students from Lady Keane College and St. Edmund’s College for their presentations during the programme.
