DIMAPUR: The District Integrated Strategy for HIV/AIDS (DISHA), Mon, in collaboration with Aboi Town Baptist Church Youth Ministry, TI NNP+ Aboi, and RRC Government Polytechnic Aboi, with support from the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS), observed the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial 2026 at Aboi Town Baptist Church under the theme “Light the Legacy: Remember. Advance. Act.”
Speaking at the proigramme, DPO, DISHA Mon, Longyim Tzudir, stated that every third Sunday of May is observed worldwide as the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial to honour those who lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses and to renew commitment towards supporting people living with HIV.
He said this year’s theme calls on people to remember the pioneers and lives lost, advance the progress made in HIV treatment and human rights, and act collectively to end stigma and achieve the goal of ending the epidemic by 2030.
Addressing the gathering, EAC Aboi, M. Khenpa, stated that the HIV prevalence rate remains high and stressed the importance of awareness and proper knowledge about the disease. He remarked that hesitation and shame associated with openly discussing HIV/AIDS remain major challenges in society, including in churches, schools, and families.
He encouraged the participants not to be ashamed to talk about HIV/AIDS and urged them to share the knowledge gained from the programme with their families and communities through open discussion.
“As we participate in this Candlelight Memorial, let us reflect, renew our commitment, and remember those who lost their lives, including medical personnel and NGO workers who dedicated themselves to serving affected individuals. Let us honour them today by lighting the candles,” he said.
He further urged the public to spread awareness, remove stigma, and work together to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS.
During the programme, E. Shamo K and friends presented the song “Go Light the World” during the candlelight vigil, while a special prayer was pronounced by associate pastor (Youth), ATBC Bonom SL Konyak,. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by programme manager, TI NNP+ Aboi, Wanmei.
