District Launching Ceremony of 60-Day Intensified IEC Campaign Held at Birjhora Mahavidyalaya, Bongaigaon

Bongaigaon Times: Bongaigaon: 13th August 2025 : The District Health Society, Bongaigaon, in line with the directives of the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO), successfully organized the District Launching Ceremony of the 60-Day Intensified IEC Campaign today at Birjhora Science Mahavidyalaya, Bongaigaon.

The programme aimed to spread awareness on HIV/AIDS prevention, testing, and treatment through targeted Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities across the district.

The event commenced with a warm welcome speech delivered by DME-cum-PRO, S. Das, followed by a felicitation ceremony led by Deepamoni Devi, who presented traditional Gamocha to all guests and dignitaries. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp was performed by Assistanat Commissioner i/c (Health) Murchana Malakar,and other dignitaries, symbolizing the beginning of the intensified campaign.

The objective speech of the campaign was delivered by District AIDS Control Officer-cum-District Tuberculosis Officer (DACO-cum-DTO), Dr Pranab.K Roy,who highlighted the importance of sustained awareness drives in combating the spread of HIV/AIDS. This was followed by a special address by In-charge Joint Director of Health Services, Dr. Badal Ch. Sarkar, and another insightful speech by ICTC Counsellor, Mr. Sahidul Islam.

A pledge ceremony of Nasa Mukta Bharat Abhiyaan was conducted by Dr. Chinmoy Bhattacharyya, Principal of Birjhora Science Mahavidyalaya, in which all dignitaries, students, and attendees participated, reaffirming their commitment to fight against HIV/AIDS and discrimination. Subsequently, an IEC awareness van was flagged off by the DACO-cum-DTO, marking the beginning of district-wide outreach activities. Informational leaflets on HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment were also distributed among students and participants to ensure the campaign’s key messages reach the community.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by District Public and privat Mix Coordinator (DPPMC) Mr. Khanindra Patgiri, appreciating the cooperation of all stakeholders.

The event witnessed the presence of the Superintendent of District Jail,D.Pathak, In-charge of ICTC Dr. M.P. Gogoi, Representative of the CEO Zila parisad,Representative of DLSA, Assistant Professors of the college, students, ASHAs, ANMs, MPWs, as well as representatives from NGOs including Pragatishil Janakalyan Samity and Bhereldi Rural Development Association. The District Health Society reaffirmed its dedication to carrying forward the 60-day campaign with robust community participation, ensuring that messages on HIV/AIDS prevention and care reach every corner of Bongaigaon District.