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POSITIVELY NEGLECTED

PREETU NAIR
e-mail: preetu_nair@...

(This article appeared on GT Weekender, Panjim edition, October 29, 2006) Women
in commercial sex work are seen as agents of HIV and their clients unwitting
victims. But in the absence of any economic rehabilitation or community based
services, the HIV positive trafficked victim, the marginalized section of the
society, continues to be commercially sexually exploited. PREETU NAIR goes
behind the obvious and discovers that if HIV/AIDS is an epidemic of bad choices
then it is also an epidemic of the choiceless and voiceless.

Rehana has just resumed her night job at Vasco after a brief illness. If luck is
smiles she will earn anything between Rs 100 and 500, from what she calls the
only work she has.

And because she and her family must survive, she fails to insist that the
customer to use condom though she is HIV positive and aware that using condom
decreases the risk of HIV transmission. "Most often we are not in a position to
negotiate safer sex” she said.

When Rehana (one of her many names) was 15, she caught a morning bus to Goa from
Karnataka, along with her lover. By evening she was sold to a brothel keeper in
the unofficial red light area of Baina for Rs 10,000. At the age of 23, she
tested HIV positive.

Rehana, who till then wanted to live a normal life and get rid of the world of
drinks, diseases, beatings and neglect in utter disbelief started drinking
heavily.” I began drinking heavily because I knew I was dying. Besides, I drink
to reduce the pain I undergo while having sex with a customer".

She knows that she can still live well and long, if she gives up her addiction
to alcohol, gutka and beedis coupled with a careless attitude to medication and
failure to adopt lifestyle changes.

But what's killing her more than the virus is the lack of hope, the absence of
family and community support, tension and their poor socio-economic condition.

"I am aware of the community care services for HIV positive persons, but don’t
want to avail them as of now I don’t want to leave Baina, my home, where I am
not stigmatized and treated differently," she admitted.

Rehana is not alone. There are many like her who want to leave commercial sex
work (CSW) and live a healthy life but are unable to as there is no alternative.
However, she added, "If these services are made available to me at home along
with economic rehabilitation then I would definitely leave CSW and live a
healthy and less painful life".

Living with HIV is not easy. And for a HIV positive trafficked victim it is a
bigger struggle. Despite their suffering they are rarely able to express
themselves. To survive, majority of
them hide their HIV status.

What is really alarming is that though there is awareness about risks, use of
condoms is low, both with non-paying and paying partners, thereby increasing the
risk of transmitting the virus. A Behavioural Surveillance Survey 2003-04 at
Baina showed that only 69 percent used condoms regularly.

Goa State AIDS Control Society (GSACS) sentinel surveillance estimates that in
2003, around 30.14 percent sex workers in the state were HIV positive. However,
the real figure would be probably much higher now.

The United Nations recently reported that that India with 5.7 million infections
has become the HIV/AIDS capital of the world surpassing South Africa’s 5.5
million. Though there is dispute regarding the number of infections, no one
denies that despite various attempts the spread of the virus shows no sign of
slowing down.

Talking to GT/Weekender, Dr Prakash Kanekar, Project Director, Goa State AIDS
Control Society (GSACS) admits that they can't afford to be complacent and need
greater commitment to reverse HIV/AIDS epidemic as the task has become more
difficult after Baina demolition. "It is now extremely difficult to identify a
commercial sex worker”

Even Arun Pandey from Arz, an NGO working with trafficked victims in Goa,
candidly admits that HIV positive trafficked victims continue to be victimized 
due to lack of community based services and failure of the state and even NGOs
to protect them. Instead of making them independent we make them dependent. We
not only put their life at risk but also fail to control the spread of the
virus.” Arun added.

Interestingly, majority of targeted interventions undertaken by NGO's through
GSACS among CSWs are focused on free condom distribution and creating awareness
through peer educators. Besides, GSACS also funds two community care centres
with 10 beds each –Freedom Foundation in the North and Aasro in the South – but
they are short stay home providing services required in between a  home and
hospital.

However, Ninoshka Norton, Project Coordinator, Freedom Foundation, admitted that
they have often observed that HIV positive trafficked victims put on DOTS or ART
don't continue treatment once they leave the home. "Once out of the home, they
go back to their normal routine and start drinking and smoking. This
deteriorates their health further," she added.

No easy choices

Though it is difficult to describe the predicaments and circumstances women in
CSW face, GT/ Weekender tries to comprehend a few of them to better understand
their lives and situations under which they live

ALL ROADS LEAD TO …

The eldest daughter of the family, Surekha was dedicated to Goddess Yellama as
soon as she gained puberty and brought to Baina by a brothel keeper for CSW.
Three years back she was tested HIV positive and was also found to be suffering
from TB. “I wanted to leave CSW but there was no alternative. Besides there is
no one to take care of me," she said.

Though her CD4 count is low, doctors can't put her on ART, because she is taking
treatment for TB. However, her TB can't be cured because she doesn't regularly
take medicines.

NO DATE WITH MEDICINES

Madhumita is just back from a date in Mysore. Date means going out of the state
for CSW. She is fully educated about the pros and cons of HIV, yet hardly
practices what she has been preached.

Two years back when she tested positive, she expected support from her 'mard'
(lover). He was at first sympathetic but when he needed money, she was back on
the streets. She protested but he threatened. "I started to go on date, 15 days
after I was detected positive. I was feeling week but then got tired of the
abuses hurled at me by my mard.

When I work, he is happy and there is peace at home", she reveals. However, what
she reveals later after is much shocking, "whenever I go on a date, I stop DOTS
treatment," she admitted

HOME IS WHERE YOUR HEART IS

In a police raid at Baina recently, a HIV positive trafficked victim was rescued
and sent to the State Protective Home. At that time she was taking DOTS
treatment, but stopped it when sent to the home. Her condition deteriorated and
she started vomiting blood at the Protective Home. Thus forcing D.C. Kundalkar,
In - charge, Protective Home to write to the Mormugao Deputy Collector Levinson
Martins, "it is not possible to take care of her and medically treat her in the
Protective Home."

As the medical tests confirmed that she was HIV positive and suffering  from TB,
Martins shifted her to Assro and meanwhile tried to make arrangements to send
her back to her home in Karnataka. But she escaped from there within a few days
and returned to her home in Baina.

*(Names of HIV positive trafficked victims have been changed in order to protect
their identity)

* (This story was made possible by a financial grant from The EU-India Media
Initiative on HIV/AIDS implemented by The Thomson Foundation)
_____________________
Venu Gopal
e-mail: <venugopal_2000@...>

Dear Friends,

Its very shocking that some officers of AIDS Control Society of West Bengal in
association and Fake HIV Test Kit company people have made the HIV situation of
West Bengal miserable.

Many inocent children requiring blood transfusion have got infected with HIV
because of unpardonable corruption in AIDS Control Society of West Bengal.

It appears that another possible of site of corruption could be at the time of
dealing NGOs with their funds for fighting HIV/AIDS.

Crores of rupees are disbursed to many NGOs through some selected people of PSU
(Project Support Unit) & AIDS Control Society. Why some selected NGOs are funded
consistently in the name of AIDS control? Many hard working & deserving NGOs are
deprived of funding.

This is questionnable and must be reviewed to reveal the mystery behind it.

Strict vigilence by some neutral agency (like CBI) is required to reveal any
hidden corruption that might already have taken place. Otherwise, similar
incident (like HIV fake test kit & 10% cut money) might be explored at the cost
of wastage of tax payers money and sufferrings of HIV affected poor people.

Thanking you.

A. Roy
MO, Barasat
e-mail: <anitaroyanita@...>

Dear FORUM,

Mutation of Mosquitoes and HIV: Request WHO to clarify their statement.

A statement allegedly made by the WHO team,  while investigating the mutated
Encephalitis and West Nile viruses, found in Cherthala taluk of Alappuzha
district in Kerala where more than 100 people died of suspected chikungunya, is
creating unnecessary panic. According to the visiting experts, if this change
continues, the mosquitoes may even become HIV carriers one day. The experts must
explain what them meant. The following is a message from AP and the news wire
item from UNI. [Moderator]

The following is a news item published in Telugu daily EENADU, one of the
largest circulated daily in AP on 15-10-2006. Please clarify this News story to
reduce the stigma attached with HIV/AIDS in AP. The news item focussing the
possibility of HIV spread through mosquito in near future.

The story goes like this, The specialist from World Health Organization and
central Government of India have jointly conducted a study in Alappala district
of Kerala. In the taluq cherthala more than 100 people died. People thought that
the mortality is due to Guinea fever. Very confusing and alarming things were
found in the study conducted by the team. They collected 38 different types of
mosquitoes from the houses of diseased and found that out of these 12 varieties
are most dangerous.

They found strange types of viruses in mosquitoes, hybrid of encephalitis and
west Nile (virus) was found in the mosquitoes. It is also found that an alarming
evolution is taking place in the genetic material of viruses and therefore the
mosquitoes are carrying new viruses in them. If the same evolution continues,
they predict that one day the mosquitoes can carry the HIV too. Previously the
mosquitoes could carry the germs of filariasis here. Presently there is no
congenial environment for the hosting the HIV in mosquitoes but if the evolution
takes place, and mutations takes place in the virus mosquitoes can spread the
HIV/AIDS

My question is, can this happen?

If it can not why this news paper should publish such a hypothetical views to
scare the innocent people. This news item can increase the stigma associated
with HIV to many folds.  Why scientist should not condemn it?.

Can you please post this topic for the discussion, so that we can be benefited
by the opinions of experts?

_______________________________

New form of virus found in Cherthala

UNI, Saturday October 14 2006 00:00 IST

ALAPPUZHA: A new generation of a complex form of Japanese Encephalitis and West
Nile viruses has been found in Cherthala taluk of Alappuzha district in Kerala
where more than 100 people died of suspected chikungunya.

According to government doctors here, the Central and the WHO teams, which
visited Cherthala last week, have found that the mutation of Japanese
Encephalitis and West Nile viruses have produced a new generation of virus.

The experts noted that patients in the area have symptoms of both these diseases
showing the presence of a complex form of virus, the doctors added.

The genetic changes in the mosquitoes in the area were also reported to be
unparalleled, as 12 out of 38 species of mosquitoes were found dangerous.

Earlier, the mosquitoes in the area could spread only filariasis but because of
genetic changes, they have become carriers of more than five fever pathogenic
agents.

The experts feel that if this change continues, the mosquitoes may even become
HIV carriers one day, the doctors said.

The process of wiping out mosquitoes is not sufficient as they produce enzymes
to survive pesticides and chemicals. The team has also suggested a detailed
study into the mutation of mosquitoes, the doctors noted.

 
http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IER20061013131904&Topic=-162&Title=K\
erala&Page=R
______________________

Narasimha Swamy Thamatam,
H.No : 2-12-201,
VIDYARANYAPURI, Hanamkonda.
Warangal   -   Andhra Pradesh.
INDIA  -  506009.
Phone : 91-0870-2454433
E-mail: <tnswamy123@...>

Dear All,

ART roll out was started at Namakkal in Jan 2005 (First of its kind in a
district hospital in India). Now it stands next to Tambaram (GHTM) in number of
people accessing the services. There are also so many best practices in this ART
center which can be replicated across all other centers (excluding the absence
of a CD4 machine).

Initially there was a CD4 machine at Namakkal. But after 6 months of the start
of the program the machine was sent back to Chennai for un-known reasons. After
that the blood samples from Namakkal (for CD4 test) are being carried to Madurai
for testing. Hence the CD4 test is done only for 2 days in a week (Monday and
Thursday). Presently for the past 2 months a blood sample for CD4 test is not
being drawn.

Can the authorities throw some light on the following points for the benefit of
the BENEFICIARIES …

Is there a provision of CD4 machine for all ART roll-out centers?

In case if one center has to take care of the load of 3 or 4 districts for CD4
testing, (for example Madurai   - Tamilnadu) then whether the required number of
re-agents and man power are made available at the center?

(When the required number of re-agents is not made available then naturally the
samples are not accepted and hence at the centers where CD4 test is not
available also stop drawing blood samples for CD4 diagnosis. Ultimately we miss
out people who might require ART and,   thereby might not reduce the rate of
mortality due to HIV/AIDS).

Should NACO scale-up ART centers (Number of centers) or should they first
fill-up the gaps in the existing ART Roll-out centers (like filling up the gap
in human-resource, infrastructure, diagnostic facilities, and inventory).

Currently at Namakkal the absence of a CD4 Machine is really a big hurdle to the
kind of quality service being provided by the ART - team. Will the concerned
authorities look in to this?

Regards,
Swami
e-mail: <swamiiyer@...>

Mumbai: Bhagwati municipal hospital at Borivli. shuns AIDS patient

Hospital shuns AIDS patient

Viju B  [31Oct, 2006 0148hrs IST TIMES NEWS NETWORK ]

MUMBAI: In yet another appaling example of the city's crumbling
public health care system, a frail patient claiming to be in the
last stages of AIDS was forced to spend a week outside Bhagwati
municipal hospital at Borivli.

Shunned by his family and friends, Bishwajeet, a youth from Orissa
in his mid-twenties, was near a huge mound of garbage outside the
hospital when TOI discovered him on Monday morning. Lying in a pool
of his own faeces and barely breathing, he had covered his face with
his torn shirt to shield himself from the harsh October sun. "I need
water," he whispered feebly.

Taking out a dried-up orange from a plastic bag—given to him by a
fruit seller—he tried to peel it, but was so weak that he was unable
to even hold it. He watched helplessly as it rolled into the drain
below. "I used to work as a fitter in this city. But ever since I
got this disease, I am unable to work," he said, and then murmured
in a near-delirium, "I need medicine. I need to go to Mumbai." It
was a statement that he kept repeating even when told that he was in
Mumbai.

Bishwajeet, who contracted AIDS through a blood transfer, was shooed
away everytime he went anywhere near the hospital gate. In front of
this reporter's eyes, a havaldar raised his baton when Bishwajeet
staggered weakly into the garden inside the hospital. "Saala, kitna
baar bola andar mat aana (How many times have I told you to stay
away?)" he yelled. Biswajeet uttered feebly again, "I need to go to
Mumbai."

An hour later, after TOI informed Dr M Wadiwala, the hospital's
medical superintendent, about Bishwajeet's plight, the authorities
decided to admit him. By then the young man had ducked beneath a
car, petrified that the cops might beat him up. He came out after he
was assured that he would be taken to 'Mumbai'.

When asked why he had to suffer such negligence, especially after
lying right at the entrance of the hospital for so many days, Dr A V
Bhat, senior medical officer said, "The hospital beds are already
packed with 85 fever cases. The hospital does not have separate
wards for such patients who may be suffering from infections like
TB. We will now admit him and do a through medical check-up."

Bhagawati Hospital, which caters to patients from Andheri to Mira
Road in the western suburbs, still does not have the facility to
give ART treatment to AIDS/HIV patients. "We refer these cases to
Nair or JJ Hospital," said a senior doctor.

Doctors and NGOs working in the field of AIDS point out that
according to health ministry stipulations there cannot be any
discrimination against people suffering from AIDS. "It is mandatory
for public health care hospitals to admit patients even if they do
not have wards exclusively for AIDS patients. The patients should be
treated for opportunistic infections," said Dr S N Sapatnekar,
director, Avert Foundation, India.

It is estimated that 1.5% of Mumbai's 15 million denizens are
infected with HIV. AIDS specialists note that the government does
not bother to provide amenities to patients. "We do not even have a
concept like hospices at municipal hospitals," said Dr J Maniar,
AIDS specialist.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/242991.cms

AIDS cases in AR exaggerated: DGAR

Shillong, Oct 13 (UNI): Director General of Assam Rifles Lieutenant
General Paramjit Singh has said that the number of HIV/AIDS patients
in his force was 'blown out of proportion' by the media.
His statement assumed significance in the backdrop of the massive
anti-AIDS/HIV campaign his predecessor Lt. General Bhopinder Singh
had led just prior to his retirement.

The number of jawans who tested positive and were undergoing
treatment was 180 while 32 others had died, as per the former DG's
statement. The first HIV-positive Assam Rifles soldier was detected
in 1992.

In sharp contrast, DGAR, Lt General Singh, said, ''it is not a
threat to my force nor is it that alarming a situation.'' He added
that in the normal process his force had taken note of the dreaded
disease.

Asked whether he will take up the initiatives of his predecessor to
campaign against AIDS/HIV in the region, he said, ''I'm not a
campaigner against AIDS/HIV, but a soldier. I will do what my force
requires me to do.''

However, he added that the Assam Rifles was committed towards
checking proliferation of the dreaded disease and also included
counselling of the local populace. ''But I fail to see why one
should turn it into a media circus,'' he remarked. Lt. General
Bhophinder Singh, who retired four months ago, had made a media
splash by observing that the HIV/AIDS scenario in the Assam Rifles
was so alarming that ''more of his jawans have died because of
HIV/AIDS than fallen to the bullets fired by the militants,'' a
statement which made headlines in the world media.

He and his wife, Winnie Singh, who headed the Assam Rifles Wives
Welfare Association (ARWWA), was part of the huge campaign. They had
co-founded an NGO--Maitri--on the eve of his retirement.

The Assam Rifles is a premier paramilitary force of 56,000 troops
deployed in the rugged jungles of the northeast against some 30-
militant groups waging insurgencies for independent homelands or
greater autonomy.

http://www.nagalandpost.com/regionaldesc.asp?sectionID=23727

Re: Armed forces: There is no pension for personnel living with HIV

Dear FORUM,

Please understand that Armed forces(Min of Defence) are different than the other
Para miliatry Forces (Min of Home Affairs).

Containing HIV numbers to approx 5000 till date since 1990 in a floating
population of over 1 million  with only about 400 odd devleping AIDS and only
abt 40 odd deaths recorded is indeed commendable.

The program in AF takes care of all the components of HIV prevention and care 
to testing and treatment of AIDS and its acompanying ailments and complications.
While in service or out of service.

The individual continues to be retained in service once he is detected to be HIV
positive.. And provided  with all the neccesary medicines under ART (which other
organisation does that in the country ?. Does yours ? ), hospitlaisation
included.

Yes,, maybe one of the factors is that due to the kind of stressfull life in the
armed forces.. The hiv positive do tend  to go into AIDS at an early date than
the ones in civil life.. (although I pesronally think that even this hyposthesis
is likely to be proved untrue, if tested)

Once a HIV positive individual goes into complication like TB and into the AID
Syndrome. Yes he is boarded out of serivce. because of incapablty to be a useful
soldier further on to the servivce and not because he has committed a crime of
contacting HIV and thereby developing AIDS. However, he continues to be provided
ART and hospitalisation as reqyuired

And let me tell you, Armed Forces is a dynamic organisation at the
forefront and at the leading edge of all the aspects of HIV prevention, care and
treatment.  HV/AIDS is still a evolving disease complex and therefore dynamic. 
I am sure that armed Forces will not be lagging behind in changing their
policies. Provided there is compelling evidence to support it and the Government
policy is framed accordingly

The program in Armed Forces needs to appreciated in totality of its content and
extent. And replicated by other orgainsation. The vast pool of public health
specialists and other specialists available in the AF are its main strength and
pillars of the program..

Best regards

Dr HS Ratti
e-mail: <ratti2@...>

WHO/ Royal Tropical Institute (KIT) seeks a Senior Researcher on “Gathering
Evidence to Promote Sexual Health” (Delhi, India)

Terms of Reference: World Health Organisation (WHO) in collaboration with the
Royal Tropical Institute (KIT) of the Netherlands is currently undertaking an
assessment of sexuality counselling interventions as part of its broader project
entitled: “Gathering Evidence to Promote Sexual Health”. The aim of the project
is to assess the contribution of sexuality counselling (or counselling that
purposefully addresses sexuality related issues) interventions to a broader SRH
and HIV/AIDS programme that has been previously evaluated or assessed as a
successful and/or effective programme. The study will be a rapid appraisal
taking approximately three to four weeks for each site with a focus on assessing
the quality of sexuality counselling intervention, identification of factors
influencing the quality of counselling and the relative outcome of the
counselling intervention on the broader programme goals and objectives.

Through these assessments we hope to document “best practices” in sexuality
counselling. This information will contribute to the evidence base on the
importance of addressing sexuality within broader SRH and HIV/AIDS programmes.

The assessments will be conducted between January-March 2007 and the results
will be used (when appropriate) to inform the development of guidelines for
providing good quality sexuality related counselling in the provision of SRH and
HIV/AIDS services. The assessments take place in four countries: Kenya, Uganda,
Brazil and India.

A researcher will be contracted by the Royal Tropical Institute (KIT) to carry
out the following activities in Delhi, India:

1.  To revise the protocol (including adaptation of the selected instruments) to
become site specific for the identified programmes and their particular form of
sexuality counselling interventions.

To undertake all necessary preparations to secure local ethical clearance, and
presentation of the protocol before ethical clearance boards in the country.

To undertake all necessary preparations for the assessment of the project site:

a) Collection and organisation of materials for the desk review, and the
analysis of this information
b) Organisation of Focus Group Discussions
c) Identification of key informants for the in-depth interviews
d) Identification of stakeholders for interviews and analysis

To carry out the research with the research team

To participate in the analysis and report writing workshop and to co-write the
final assessment report (and subsequent article as appropriate)

Timeline: Approximately 20 days over the course of three months and
remuneration: Rs. 2.25 lakhs

Profile requirements of researcher:

- 5-10 years of experience working on, and preferably evaluating SRH and HIV
programmes in one of the selected countries
- Advanced degree in public health
- No direct affiliation with any of the organisations to be assessed
- Excellent analytical and writings skills
- Excellent command of written and spoken Hindi and English

Interested candidates should send their CV and a letter of interest to
s.nayak@... by 27th November 2006. Short-listed candidates will be contacted
directly by the India Research Team (interviews likely in December 2006).

Sanjoy K. Nayak
e-mail: <sanjoy_k_nayak@...>

Dear Forum,

We have been keenly observing the debate raised in response to Ms. Meena Sesu's
posting. No doubt may participates in the debate has brought forward several
important aspect of sex and sex work related issues and agenda. However we feel
that in the process of discussion the basic issues related to IPT(A) and its
proposed amendment got lost.

We would like to draw your attention in this regard. Though by name the act is
meant to stop trafficking of human beings, the act essentially deals with
"prostitution" from a standpoint of sexual morality articulated in Victorian
era.

In all sections of the Act the terms 'trafficking' and 'prostitution' (=Sex
work) are collapsed. This does not make any sense. In all sectors of the labour
market some human beings are trafficked, but not all. This is true of the sex
sector too.

We need comprehensive laws to fighting all forms of trafficking of human beings
in all sectors of our economy, for instance, agriculture, cottage industry,
domestic services, hotels, manufacturing etc. In West Bengal Durbar, the largest
sex workers collective with a member of (60,000) sixty thousand (Male, Female,
Trans-gender) have been putting up a battle against trafficking of human beings
in the sex sector through Self-Regulatory Boards. Our experience shows that
trafficked labour into the sex sector is only a small part of the total number
of workers trafficked into and from our labour market.

The demand for trafficked workers in the various sectors of our economy awaits
mapping. Under these circumstances, the conflation of sex workers and
trafficking in persons in the IT(P)A is not at all tenable.

The ITP(A) conflates all non-marital sexual activity with sex work and, further
all sex work with trafficking in human beings. This effectively criminalizes all
non-marital sexual activities, including sex work, on the one hand and turns a
blind eye to the vast ocean of human trafficking in all sectors of the economy
on the other. Being moral is about being good. The effects of the ITP(A),
together with the proposed amendments, like the new sub-section 5(c) that
proposes to arrest the customer as a criminal ---will be devastating for the
sexual health of our people, as it will push the sex sector---its workers,
customers and all --- underground. The ITP(A) will be a sordid evil stocking the
wild fire of the now raging AIDS pandemic.

In this land of the Kamasutra, where our sacred texts recognized Kama as a
legitimate goal of life, let us put a stop to this Anglo-Americal inspired,
bigoted puritanical hypocrisy around the sex sector.

So, we strongly urge members of our society to recognize the sex workers and
their customers as normal people and repeal the ITP(A).

Yours sincerely,

Bharati Dey

Project Director
DMSC
e-mail: <sonagachi@...>

Aids patient leaps to death from hospital

[30 Oct, 2006 0207hrs IST TIMES NEWS NETWORK ]

HYDERABAD: An HIV/Aids patient from Warangal leapt to death from the
fifth floor of a corporate hospital on Sunday. Though a nurse tried
to prevent him from committing suicide, the depressed patient shoved
her out of his way and jumped from the hospital window in public
view.

S Srinivas, 39, reportedly tested HIV-positive in 2002. On the
advice of his doctors in Warangal, he was shifted to a corporate
hospital in the city two days ago as his condition worsened. Late on
Saturday night, Srinivas complained of breathlessness and was
shifted to the acute medical care unit.

His condition became stable by Sunday. "At 1.30 pm, Srinivas took a
tool used to cut disposable syringes, smashed window panes and
jumped from there," Market police SI Ravinder Reddy said. Srinivas
is survived by two wives and six children.

A spokesperson of the hospital said Srinivas was admitted with lung
infection as he was suffering from tuberculosis. Sources said
Srinivas and his second wife had an argument over some issue after
which the woman left. After 10 minutes, he ended his life.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/223499.cms

Dear FORUM,

'Heart felt condolence to Mr. Birendrajit (wawa) on his sudden death - 1964 -
2006'

Mr. Birendrajit singh people use to call him as wawa in short. He was brought up
from the middle class and a very peace full family. Unfortunately in his young
age his father pass away during his school days due to his family, physical
problem and peer pressure he has started using heroin among the friend circle
that was in the year 1983/4, almost for the last 10 years he hook to it.

But after a long struggle, in the year 1989/90 he got clean, in that same year
by group of young minded ex-drug uses has form SASO in order to fight stigma and
discrimination among the drug user and PLHA community (Manipur). As during those
days stigma and discrimination was very very big in the state of Manipur
especially among the drug user and PLHA community especially in the NE reagion.

Since the day of inception in 1991 Social Awareness Service Organisation, he has
involving various issues related with drug user and HIV/AIDS. Over the 16 years
his working experience he has involve in policy change, project implementation,
Advocacy and management in the drug use and HIV/AIDS related issues in the State
and National level. He is also one of the IDUs advisory committee board members
in the NSEP III. Not only this he also involve as a acting members under the
care and support program in National and south east Asia region.

1991 – 2006 after more than a decade working with sincerity in the issues due to
his physical illness wawa pass away on 24 th October 2006. His sudden death has
lost in the IDU and PLHA community.

I personally would like to show warm gratitude and remembrance to his commitment
and contribution towards to issues on drug use and HIV/AIDS.

'May his SOUL be remain in peace'

In solidarity,

Bangkim

Chingsubam Bangkim Singh
Project Manager
Project Concern International - PCI
SASO-Social Awareness Service Organisation
RIMS Road, Imphal - 795001 Manipur (INDIA)
Phone:91-385-2411408
Fax:91-385-2411409
Mobile:91-0 9436036213
E-MAIL: bankimimph@...

SAATHII -Hyderabad Job Opportunities in Prevention of Mother to Child
Transmission in India


SAATHII a capacity building agency is currently coordinating Prevention of
Mother to Child Transmission programs funded by Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS
Foundation that are being implemented in four states at 100 health care
facilities.  SAATHII has following openings that need to be filled immediately
for EGPAF-PMTCT Consortium office. Interested candidates please send a cover
letter detailing your eligibility for the position, an updated
bio-data and three references to Saathii.jobs@.... before November 10,
2006. Please specify the position you are applying for in your e-mail subject.

Program Manager (Medical Background)(Job Code: HYD-PM-1106)

Responsibilities
. Day to Day oversight of the EGPAF consortium office staff.
. Technical Assistance to EGPAF funded PMTCT programs including
training, e-mail and telephone consultation and site visits.
. Supportive Monitoring Visits to the Program Sites.
. Expansion to new states and sites which includes identification of
the partners, assistance with grant preparation, grant review and start up
technical assistance to the new partners.
. Impact analyses of current PMTCT programs.
. Development of Standard Operating Procedures for implementation of
PMTCT programs at diverse health care settings.
. Monitoring of Implementation of Standard Operating Procedures.
. Quarterly and Annual Report preparation.

Qualifications

. Medical doctor with training in obstetrics and gynecology
. Minimum 5-8 years of clinical experience
. Minimum three years of experience in implementing PMTCT programs.
. Experience in clinical management of HIV will be an asset.
. Ability to work with large network of health care partners from the
government, private and non-governmental sectors.
. Proven ability in leading a large program.
. Proven ability in mentoring and training
. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
. Willing to travel to six high prevalence states.

Monitoring and Evaluation Manager (Job Code: HYD-MEM-1106)

  Responsibilities

. Develop monthly technical reporting format for the partners.
. Develop uniform data collection tools.
. Gather data on ongoing basis from the consortium partners.
. Data analyses and interpretation.
. Development of centralized data systems for data storing.
. Conduct Impact analyses of current PMTCT programs.
. Plan and implement operational research using quantitative and
qualitative techniques in collaboration with all the consortium
partners.
. Quarterly review of technical reports.
. Supportive Monitoring Visits to the Program Sites.

Qualifications

. Training in social sciences, public health or medicine.
. Minimum 5-8 years of experiences in monitoring and evaluation of
large  clinical programs.
. Experience in design and implementation of qualitative and
quantitative research studies.
. Experience in managing large data bases.
. Ability to work with large network of health care partners from the
government, private and non-governmental sectors.
. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
. Willing to travel to six high prevalence states.

Program Officer(Job Code: HYD-PO-1106)

Responsibilities
. Coordination of day to day operations of the consortium office.
. Coordination of logistics related to consortium meetings and
meetings  with various stake holders.
. Coordination of communication with all the consortium partners.
. Coordination of logistics related to site visits and supportive
monitoring visits.
. Submission of partner data to SACS and NACO
. Dissemination of Reports.
. Disseminate education materials and tools developed by the
consortium  partners to other stake holders.
. Ensure timely submission of reports by the partners.

Qualifications

. Minimum 2-3 years of experiences in program coordination.
. Minimum 2-3 years of experience in HIV related programs
. Experience in coordinating meetings and trainings.
. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
. Ability to work with large network of health care partners from the
government, private and non-governmental sectors.
. Willing to travel.

Subhasree
E-mail: <subhasree_raghavan@...>

Antiretroviral drug-resistant HIV-2 infection - a new therapeutic
dilemma

Authors: Maniar, Janak K.1; Damond, Florence2; Kamath, Ratnakar R.3;
Mandalia, Sundhiya4; Surjushe, Amar5

Source: International Journal of STD & AIDS, Volume 17, Number 11,
November 2006, pp. 781-782(2)

Abstract:
HIV-2 drug resistance in a case of dual HIV infection presents a
formidable challenge to the treating physician. We report a patient
with dual infection on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)
since March 2001 presented with clinical failure. Laboratory assays
showed undetectable HIV-1 viral RNA copies, but with low CD4 count.
Suspecting HIV-2 resistance, specific genotype assays were
performed. Mutations at codons M184V and Q151M conferring resistance
to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) in HIV-1
infection were detected, as were mutations at codons V71I and L90M
implying indinavir and nelfinavir resistance as well. Salvage
therapy was initiated with good clinical response.

Keywords: HIV-2; DRUG RESISTANCE; DUAL INFECTION
Document Type: Case report
DOI: 10.1258/095646206778691059

Affiliations: 1: Department of Infectious Diseases, Jaslok Hospital
& Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India 2: Laboratoire de
Virologie, Hôpital Bichat Claude Bernard, Paris, France 3:
Foundation for Medical Research, Worli, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
4: Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and
Westminster, Hospital London, UK 5: The Salvation Army, Mumbai
HIV/AIDS Community Development Programme, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Dear forum

I feel validated when I read a report like this. Every time some one has told me
that this is what they have picked up from their field surveys my eyebrow has
taken a sharp turn.

Simply we do not talk  straight sex in India. We live in the closet. All alleged
interviews are more the bewildering imagination of the individual being
interviewed. Without the 'masala' how can you sell a good story?

I must take off my hat to the majority of organizations that claim concerned
individuals for the HIV positive.

I visit a state run ART center to collect my ARV'S monthly. The doctor in charge
avoids me as routine. Reason: I objected to the X'mas tree he had made of the
ART center. And I have to sit out side it so the world without difficulty can
identify me as HIV positive. Isn't there an overstated policy saying it is not
correct to point out HIV positive people? Added to it, it has, I am told NACO's
blessings.

I see no alternative left, but to take the Press in one day and tear down the
hoardings, placards, red curtains etc. Today was the 5th time I visited the ART
center, my objections were registered the first time.

Where are the Oh so ever sweet people who want to help (incl NACO)? They don't
see a red herring, they prefer a red ribbon that tells the world of their great
concern for 'US'. It's nice to be seen, as the good concerned citizen working
for the unfortunate is my assumption with regards to most people working in this
area of work.

The late Indira Gandhi was close to death as a young woman when TB had no cure.
Yet no one talked about TB.

Its association with sexual behavior has plagued HIV on the other hand and so is
a taboo subject per say. India is conservative till date because we are a
developing country. The educated Indian knows a lot about HIV, but has not come
to terms with the fact that HIV is 'not' knocking on our doors, but has already
come inside.

The number of time bombs walking around is yet to hit us hard in the face. As of
date we are still squabbling over how an ART center must look?

When will we get down to some serious work?

NACO for all the good work you are being validated for lets not assume you have
it all right please.

Regards

Capt(retd) Kumar
e-mail: <kumar.captretd@...>

Updated U.S. Pediatric ARV Guidelines

Guidelines for the Use of Antiretroviral Agents in Pediatric HIV
Infection. Working Group on Antiretroviral Therapy and Medical
Management of HIV-Infected Children. October 26, 2006 and related
documents can be accessed directly from the U.S. government's AIDS
Info Web Site:

http://www.aidsinfo.nih.gov/Guidelines/GuidelineDetail.aspx?
MenuItem=Guidelines&Search=Off&GuidelineID=8&ClassID=1

The following documents are available at the US Department of Health
and Human Services.

Pediatric Guidelines
Guidelines for the Use of Antiretroviral Agents in Pediatric HIV
Infection - October 26, 2006

Supplements:
Supplement I: Pediatric Antiretroviral Drug Information - October
26, 2006

Supplement II: Managing Complications of HIV Infection in HIV-
Infected Children on Antiretroviral Therapy - October 26, 2006

Supplement III: Adverse Drug Effects - October 26, 2006

Slides:
Updated Slide Set for Pediatric Guidelines from the AETC National
Resource Center

Fact Sheets:
HIV During Pregnancy, Labor and Delivery, and After Birth (English) -
  January, 2006

Manuals:
Antiretroviral Agents - Pediatric Edition - February 2006


http://www.aidsinfo.nih.gov/Guidelines/GuidelineDetail.aspx?MenuItem=Guidelines&\
Search=Off&GuidelineID=8&ClassID=1

NGOs resort to 'Gandhigiri' against official

Friday, 27 October , 2006, 18:38

Panaji: The peaceful method of protest popularised by Hindi
film `Lage Raho Munnabhai' continues to inspire people, and the
latest example of it came from Goa.

Activists of voluntary organisations resorted to 'Gandhigiri' at Goa
State Aids Control Society (GSACS) office in Panaji on Friday to
protest alleged indecent behaviour by the society's director Prakash
Kanekar.

The organisations, gathered under the banner of Goa People's Forum,
marched to the office of Kanekar and offered him flowers, the novel
method of protest popularised by the Sanjay Dutt-starrer.

GSACS is a semi-government body, which implements AIDS control
programmes. Several other social activists also joined the NGOs in
the protest that culminated in a street play.

"We have protested in a very peaceful manner... we gave him flowers
and wished him 'speedy recovery'," Satish Sonak, Convenor, Goa
People's Forum, told reporters.

Sonak alleged the director was abusive towards NGOs working in the
field of AIDS awareness and funds sanctioned for AIDS control
programmes were not being utilised in proper manner.

Kanekar, however, refuted the allegations. "If at all there was any
grievance against me, they should have lodged complaint with higher
authorities," he told the media after the protest.

The GSACS director said he had not committed any mistake and such a
protest was unwarranted.

http://www.samachar.com/showurl.htm?
rurl=http://headlines.sify.com/news/fullstory.php?
id=14319687&headline=NGOs~resort~to~'Gandhigiri'~against~babu

[Moderators note: Combined posting. Gisselquist and Corea raised some
fundamental aspects of HIV response in India. The following are the abstract of
these articles from the  International Journal of STD & AIDS, Volume 17, Number
11, November 2006,]

1)India flawed by focus on sex in campaign against AIDS: study
2) A passage to India's HIV epidemics: sending out an SOS
3) Routes of HIV transmission in India: assessing the reliability of
information from AIDS case surveillance
4) How much does heterosexual commercial sex contribute to India's
HIV epidemic?
5) Reconnaissance assessment of risks for HIV transmission through
health care and cosmetic services in India
____________________________

1) India flawed by focus on sex in campaign against AIDS: study

PARIS (AFP) - India is making perilous mistakes in its fight against

AIDS by assuming the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is being
spread overwhelmingly by sex and especially by prostitutes, a study
warns.

India is considered by many specialists to be an easy target for
AIDS, despite the health authorities' insistence that they are
making headway against the disease. In May, the Geneva-based agency

UNAIDS said India had 5.7 million people living with HIV/AIDS -- the
highest figure in the world, ahead of South Africa where the figure
stands at 5.5 million. The government says the tally is 5.2 million.
The new study, published by Britain's prestigious Royal Society of
Medicine, does not wade into the row over these figures, but instead
lashes India's assumption that sex, especially with prostitutes, is
the main driver for new infections.

"It is inconsistent with evidence and very likely wrong," is the
blunt verdict delivered by US researchers David Gisselquist and
Mariette Corea in the society's International Journal of STD and
AIDS.

According to India's National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), 86
percent of HIV infections are from sexual transmission, and
according to three studies that have helped underpin the country's
AIDS strategies, prostitutes account for 27 percent of the total.

But Gisselquist and Corea -- who did extensive field research in
India -- say these calculations are terribly wide of the mark.
The total estimate of infections comes from hospital staff, who
assess and report routes of transmission for patients admitted with
AIDS.

But many personnel routinely assign cases to the category of sexual
acquisition without asking if the patient may have been exposed to
infection through blood, the authors say.

And they argue the official tally of prostitutes in India, their
number of clients and the frequency of clients' visits are probably
huge overestimates.

In addition, there is evidence that commercial sex workers are far
likelier to use condoms and less likely to have HIV than health
officials believe, the study says.

Its best estimate is that prostitutes account for just two percent
of HIV infections -- and a high estimate would be 13 percent, less
than half that of NACO's figure.

This means that India is ignoring threats from other sources, in
particular the re-use of unsterile instruments in hospitals,
cosmetic services, dental surgeries and tattoo parlours.

In one incident, commercial sex workers reported they had stood in
line for tattoos that were administered without changing needles or
inkpot between customers.

And the researchers found a common mistaken belief among the general
public as well as the medical profession that HIV survives no more
than seconds or a few minutes outside the body.

"The official sexualisation of the HIV epidemic has blinded just
about everybody to considering (and protecting against) non-sexual
routes of transmission," the journal said in an editorial.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20061026/wl_sthasia_afp/healthaidsindia_0
61026232005
_____________________________
2) A passage to India's HIV epidemics: sending out an SOS
Author: Potterat, John J.1
Source: International Journal of STD & AIDS, Volume 17, Number 11,
November 2006, pp. 718-719(2)

Abstract:
The official view is that India's epidemics are driven, directly and
indirectly, by heterosexual prostitution. Review of available
evidence by researchers in India undermines this weakly supported
orthodoxy and suggests that correcting weaknesses in its AIDS
surveillance system can lead to a more reliable picture of HIV
propagation and hence to evidence-based interventions. Contenders
for leading roles in HIV transmission are under-suspected and
unmeasured skin-puncturing exposures
_____________________

3) Routes of HIV transmission in India: assessing the reliability of
information from AIDS case surveillance

Authors: Correa, Mariette1; Gisselquist, David1
Source: International Journal of STD & AIDS, Volume 17, Number 11,
November 2006, pp. 731-735(5)

Abstract:
India's AIDS case surveillance system attributes 86% of HIV
infections to sexual risks, 2.4% to injection drug use, 2.0% to
blood transfusions, 3.6% to perinatal transmission, and 6.0% to
others or not specified. To assess the reliability of this
information, we examined the process of AIDS case surveillance in
four high HIV-prevalence districts in southern India. We reviewed
forms and interviewed doctors, counsellors, officials of State AIDS
Control Societies, and a convenience sample of people living with
HIV/AIDS. Current surveillance practices are not sensitive to
parenteral exposures; forms have no space to report blood exposures
other than transfusions and injections, and counsellors often ignore
parenteral risks. The system does not distinguish high from lower
risk sexual behaviours; all cases with sexual risks are reported in
one category. We propose changes in forms and practices to improve
the reliability and usefulness of information on risks from AIDS
case reporting.
________________________

4) How much does heterosexual commercial sex contribute to India's
HIV epidemic?

Authors: Gisselquist, David1; Correa, Mariette1
Source: International Journal of STD & AIDS, Volume 17, Number 11,
November 2006, pp. 736-742(7)

Abstract:
Through a search, we identified five models of India's HIV epidemic,
all of which articulate the hypothesis that heterosexual commercial
sex drives India's HIV epidemic. All five models assume more female
sex workers (FSWs) than have been mapped (counted), and more than
can be inferred from men's sexual behaviour. With best and highest
plausible evidence-based estimates (15-20% of 300,000-700,000 FSWs
are HIV-positive; FSWs have 570 client contacts per year; clients
use condoms with 60-75% of FSW contacts; and the rate of HIV
transmission from FSWs to clients is 0.0011-0.002 per unprotected
contact), FSWs and clients account for 2-15% of HIV-infected adults,
far less than model-based estimates of 44-68%. Overestimating the
contribution of commercial sex to India's HIV epidemic misleads
prevention programmes to ignore other risks, and promotes the
stigmatizing assumption that HIV infection is a sign of immoral
behaviour.
_____________________
5) Reconnaissance assessment of risks for HIV transmission through
health care and cosmetic services in India
Authors: Correa, Mariette1; Gisselquist, David1
Source: International Journal of STD & AIDS, Volume 17, Number 11,
November 2006, pp. 743-748(6)

Abstract:
Available information shows frequent unsterile medical injections in
India, but less is known about other invasive procedures. To assess
the variety and frequency of blood exposures in health care and
cosmetic services, we interviewed people living with HIV/AIDS in
four districts with high HIV prevalence. Eighty percent reported
from 1-300 injections in the five years before testing HIV-positive.
Common lifetime exposures include dental care (31%), surgery (20%),
blood tests (100%), and tattooing (47%). Through observation and
interviews with doctors, dentists, and others, we found evidence for
common to routine re-use of unsterilized equipment for blood tests
(lancets), dental care, tattoos, and surgery.

Health-care professionals and the public are misinformed about HIV survival
outside the body and underestimate HIV transmission efficiency through blood
exposures. The challenge to implement infection control for all invasive
procedures remains undefined, while attention focuses on partial solutions,
including single use of disposable syringes.

Affiliations: 1: 29 West Governor Road, Hershey, PA 17033, USA

Dear Subir K.Kole,

Your clarifications are well-taken. Yet, a couple of more points.

Thanks to HIV and other STI today, even men do not have " all the 'power' to
dictate to women how, where and what forms of sexual intercourse will take
place". In a repressive culture, men shell out their hard-earned money, more as
victims of their bottled up emotions and not necessarily as superior, arrogant
and assertive individuals.

If money-exchange is a stumbling block to a fair and healthy negotiation of sex,
within a single instance of sexual agreement, the entire institution of marriage
in a patriarchal culture lends itself to even more disastrous consequences. No
research can  exhaust the level of agonies involved in such traditional
contracts.

Again, the affected parties will be not only women, but even men when the entire
complexity of issues are taken into account.

My simple attempt has been to focus on the root-cause of poverty and
prostitution, which I have clearly stated as lack of norms towards
re-distribution of wealth generated under a universal law of injustice and
binding the sexual tendencies of people to one simple system, while honorable
multiple systems are required and are legitimately possible.

The responsibility of private affairs and private agreements should rightly be
in the hands of individuals involved and not in the hands of a universal marital
law, espoused by a state or religion.

No single principle can rule the complexity of sexual tendencies and the
complexity of human predicaments and circumstances. The role of a  State or
Religion should be dressed down to the  over-all guiding principles or the 
arbitration of disputes arising within individual agreements.

Sincerely,
E.Rajarethinam
E-MAIL: <globalcitizens@...>

Dear Members,

I need a soft copy of the Need Assessment Questionnaire designed by NACO.

Can anybody help ?

Anubrata
e-mail: <anubratadatta@...>

Dear fourm,

It is shocked to hear around 30 to 40 Injecting Drug Users (IDU) passed away
after taking ART, apart from that in a week at least 2 to 3 people die from IDU
community due to OD or sucide  without getting any help, this posting is to
bring this to the notice to all.

IDU's are still at risk behavior in their life and no support from various
networks and NGO’s working in the IDU field  etc…., since we are not addressing
the primary problems.

So let’s think and act where the gaps are  and how we can fill the gaps, since
in Chennai the IDU communities are finding lot of difficulty’s to accessing and
getting service to lead their
normal life.

Also in my findings 60% of HIV infected people are still under
chemical dependent (Brown sugar, ganja, alcohol, pills etc…)   due to the 
dependency the risk behaviors are still increasing in their life and also the
transmission of the virus is higher.

Now may be we have to take a  positive steps by involving the ex-user to involve
in all kind of service  including NACO and all SACS to make them to involve in
the policy making and for a better health prospective for ivdu’s. Any one is
there to address the
issue.

(My personal view)
KNS Varadhan
e-mail: <knsvaradhan@...>

Dear FORUM,

It give a immense pleasure to me to announce the arrival of India's First Heat
Stable Ritonavir 100mg tab from Emcure Ltd in the name of EMPETUS  tab.

Empetus is available in bottle pack of 30 tab costing 900 Rs per bottle.
Empetus stock is been available now. Requesting to pass on the benefits of
Empetus to your forthcoming patients.

For any help requesting to keep my Mob No - 9822507688 & 09325006675

Regards.

Vinod I Yelemmi.
Zonal Sales Manager, Pune HQ
Konker Division {Antiretroviral, Anti-TB, Enfinity & Scasis}
Emcure Ltd.
Mob -- +919822507688 & 09325006675
Website -- www.emcureaidsinfo.com
e-mail: <vinod_yel@...>

Dear Associates,

Punjabi Print Media proposed me to write regularly on HIV+ Speakers
with their wish to come forward in media for the Advocacy of Rights of
People Living With HIV.

Kindly send me photographs and brief profile and activities of a
speaker how he/ she is working to reduce stigma and discrimination in
the community and their experiences.

Regards,
Avnish
email:avnishjolly@...

Dear FORUM and Umashankar,

Umashankar's case is very compelling, and I assume that there are many others in
the same situation.

Many who just do not have the opportunity to get their posting on to this list.
Many who have never even been to an internet cafe.

I have heard that Kaletra in India is $1380 (US dollars,  $1 US is 45 Rupees)  
per year from CIPLA , very expensive for anyone who is not wealthy.

It is ironic, because Abbot Laboratories provides its  not for profit version of
Kaletra for $500 a year in sub saharan Africa countries, but not in India.

So probably the same would be true for CIPLA if they were willing to sell on a
not for profit basis, in India,  meaning $500  a year, perhaps making this
second line drug more affordable for you, and for NACO as well.

But there needs to be political will to get this done.

I will be in India starting on November 5th, and I will hope to bring your case
to the attention of CIPLA, NACO, WHO and UNAIDS, and I will also forward this
correspondence  to Abbot Laboratories, whose current price is above $2,000 US
per year.

I am also wondering what specific  second line medication your Doctor
recommended (if it was Kaletra or something else)    and if you have contacts
who are interested in similar issues that you would recommend in New Delhi where
I will be in November for a couple of weeks.

I hope I can do something to help.

Sincerely,

Richard Stern
e-mail: <rastern@...>

Dear Forum

I am positive my self and have over the last 11 months been exposed to 3
organizations 'claiming' to be providers.

I am shocked to see a President of a positive group having to write such a
letter.

For all those who claim to be 'assisting' SHOW IT TO US…………..

Umashankar Pandey YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS

"Capt(retd) Kumar"
e-mail: <kumar.captretd@...>

Dear All,

Re: Armed forces: There is no pension for personnelliving with HIV. I cannot
believe the government could do something like this.

It is truly shocking, as suggested by Winnie, all organizations working on the
issue of HIV-AIDS could come together and send a petition to the government.
These are men and women who put their lives out defending the country; they
cannot be treated so shabbily.

Best Wishes,

Rita Panicker
e-mail: <ritap@...>

Dear FORUM,

I was moved by Umashankar's story, "Let, this not be my last wish!"
I hope someone in NACO, some doctor sees and understands your plight and
intervenes, helps. Don't lose hope.

I am sure something good will come out of this email network. Hope you see your
daughter married and live on to see her little ones too. Best wishes

Usha Rai
e-mail: <usharai1948@...>

AIF's $5 million initiative to fight AIDs in India

Suman Guha Mozumder, October 24, 2006 15:38 IST

The American India Foundation (AIF) announced a new $5 million
(about Rs 22.5 crore) initiative to combat HIV/AIDS in India during
the non-profit organisation's third annual Fall Benefit Gala in San
Francisco recently.

Victor Menezes, former senior vice chairman of Citigroup and AIF co-
chair, made the announcement at the gala attended by over 700
people, including corporate executives, diplomats, artists,
journalists and AIF's well-wishers.

AIF Trustees Asha and Raj Rajaratnam made the first commitment � of $1.5
million (about Rs 6.75 crore) � for the project.

Mythili Sankaran, AIF's West Coast Regional Director, told rediff
India Abroad the gift of $1.5 million would go a long way in
speeding up AIF's work on prevention education, equip community
clinics with trained healthcare providers and provide care and
support, particularly to vulnerable children and pregnant women.

The gala brought into focus the work AIF is doing in India, and the
great deal more that can be done when pooling minds and resources,
Sankaran said.

The September 23 gala, that included a cocktail reception, awards
ceremony, dinner and a musical concert, finally raised a record
$1.75 million for AIF's developmental work.

Sankaran said the proceeds from the gala would go to furthering
AIF's three pillars of development work in India � education,
livelihood and public health.

"The amount we raised at the gala will be allocated for all
grassroots programs, including public health," she said, adding that
in future the foundation wants to expand other public health
concerns as well.

Recent figures of HIV/AIDS infections among adults and children in
India, which has the second-largest HIV-positive population after
South Africa, are estimated at over 5 million.

Without appropriate action and given the risk factors in India, some
predict the infection levels will rise as high as 20 to 25 million
by 2010, equal to the combined population of London, New York and
Tokyo.

Although AIF was launched soon after the Gujarat earthquake
primarily to provide relief and rehabilitation to the victims of the
calamity, in his speech Menezes focused on how the AIF has grown in
terms of developmental work in India in the past five years.

"He mentioned that today the AIF is considered a premier
organisation when it comes to scaled and sustainable work in India
for the marginalised people in the country and he did talk about the
new areas of focus for AIF and where it wants to go in future from
where the organisation is today," Sankaran said.

"We want to become the primary point for the Diaspora, the most
trusted channel when it comes to giving to India for developmental
work. That is why, going forward, a large part of our focus would be
on scaling our efforts to continue to work more effectively,"
Sankaran said.

"We will scale our work with both the central government and various
state governments in India and create innovative models to reach
more number of marginalised people. That is where we see our value
addition," she said.

At the gala, Hollywood producer Ashok Amritraj and Silicon Valley
venture capitalists Vinod Khosla and Bill Draper served as gala
chairs. AIF also recognised Paul Otellini, President and CEO of
Intel Corporation, and Nandan Nilekani, CEO of Infosys Technologies
Ltd for their leadership, entrepreneurial endeavors and commitment
to corporate social responsibility in India.

In his address Otellini spoke about Intel's commitment to further
proliferation of technology in India as well as its community
outreach efforts.

Intel's focus areas of work in the community in India include
education, where it is providing technology and training support to
institutions such as the SOS Children's Villages of India, India
Sponsor Foundation, among others.

It also launched volunteer matching grant program last year in 25
Karnataka government schools, five special schools, and two Intel
Computer Clubhouses. For every 20 volunteer hours spent by an Intel
employee, the institution gets $50 from the Intel Foundation.

"Intel is looking at AIF as one of their partners to do the
community outreach," Sankaran said.

http://www.rediff.com/news/2006/oct/24suman.htm

Dear Forum

How about a discussion on the right of the State to make laws regarding
consensual adult sex instead of going on and on about legalizing / criminalising
sex work? We feel that in this debate there is complete polarization and there
doesn't seem to be any scope for shifting of positions in both camps.

Why is it that the anti legalization people never use the word
"decriminalization"? Is there a hint here?

Regards
Meera
e-mail: <rmeera102@...>

Dear friends,

It is very sad to inform you that Lamabam Birendrajit Singh (Wawa), General
Secretary of Social Awareness Service Organisation (SASO in short) has passed
away on 24th Oct. 2006 at 12.05 noon. Loosing him has left a great vacuum in our
Organisation.

Since the Organisation is formed by a group of Ex-drug users, he had worked very
hard in all the issues faced by the drug user and those who are infected &
affected by HIV/AIDS and other related issues. He was a true Social Worker.

I, on behalf of the Organisation, would like to inform to all those who are
close and concern.

May his good soul rest in peace.

S. Ranju Singh
Joint Secretary
SASO, Imphal. Manipur.
E-mail: <tomba1694@...>