STI/HIV/AIDS Prevention Program for Industrial Workers

With the financial assistance Tamilnadu State AIDS Control Society (TANSACS), Chennai this program is being implemented in Pallipalayam area of Namakkal District since September 2003. Under the Phase-III of this program during this year (April 2006- July 2007), the power loom industrial workers are being given greater awareness on STI/HIV/AIDS through the one on one and one-group meetings by the project outreach staff. Counselling services for the target groups, partners and also for the family members are also being carried out by the counsellors.

Community awareness events are held at frequent intervals with carrying the prevention messages of STI/HIV/AIDS. BCC events are also held at the vantage points of the target areas to sensitize the people on STI/HIV/AIDS and towards its treatment. Medical camps are being held for the target community with the co-operation and support with the local Primary Health Centres, Private Hospitals, Government ICTC centres and with the local industries. From October 2006, a STI specialist Doctor have been appointed in the nearby Trichengode Taluk Hospital with the funding support from TANSACS so as to ensure easy accessibility and proper treatment care services for the clients.

Condom promotion by means of strengthening the traditional outlets and forming and promoting non-traditional outlets are in process. Social marketing of condoms are also taken place as part of the project activities. Advocacy meetings with key stakeholders are being held to exchange the ideas and suggestions for the networking and linkage services.