You are invited to join AIDS INDIA eFORUM

If you are already a member of this FORUM, Please forward this to a colleague
who may find this FORUM useful.

(This is an automated message send every month to all the subscribers)

AIDS INDIA eFORUM is an electronic forum to foster communication and
collaboration among those of who are involved or interested in AIDS related
issues in India. Your e-mail id is on this list because you must have indicated
your interest in AIDS related issues in India or some one else must have
suggested your name as a person who may be interested in AIDS related issues in
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to this message with "REMOVE" as the subject tag.

This is a moderated forum. We would like to invite you to post messages,
announcements, details of your AIDS related work in India. Confidentiality of
the list members is assured.  For more details of the forum please contact the
moderator. Please revewiew the posting guidelines before you post

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/AIDS-INDIA/files/Posting%20guidelines

A code of conduct of AIDS INDIA eFORUM is also available on the 'File section'
of the FORUM

More than 5,000 subscribers are enjoying this free service. If you are already a
member of AIDS INDIA eFORUM  Please forward this message to your colleagues.

Thank you for your attention.

Dr. Joe Thomas
Moderator
AIDS INDIA eFORUM
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/AIDS-INDIA/

3rd Reminder: AIDS INDIA e FORUM subscriber survey: Questionnaire
(12/08)

AIDS INDIA e FORUM subscriber survey: Questionnaire (12/08)

Few days ago you must have received an announcement about this survey
on the AIDS-INDIA e FOURUM. This is an evaluation of the
effectiveness of a peer to peer, HIV/AIDS related electronic
discussion group. We are interested in finding out how to make this
FOURM more useful to you and your work.

We would appreciate, greatly if you could help us by taking a few
minutes to answer this short survey. Your valuable feedback will
assist us to meet your needs better and to improve this service in
support of AIDS prevention and care initiatives in India.

This is a voluntary survey, and confidentiality of your identity will
be respected. A copy of the results of this study will be made
available to you. There are twenty questions in this questionnaire.

Please answer all questions and reply by e-mail before December 30th,
2008 to <joe_thomas123@...>

Thank you

Joe Thomas
Moderator, AIDS-INDIA e FORUM
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/AIDS-INDIA/
______________________________________

INSTRUCTIONS

First hit "Reply" to this email message. Then simply type an 'X'
where appropriate. When you have answered all the questions,
press "send" to send the email message.


Q. 1 what is your profession? (Type an X between the brackets
preceding your choice. Select only one choice)

[ ] Student
[ ] Government/ Civil Service
[ ] Researcher/ Academic
[ ] Social Worker/ Counsellor
[ ] Staff of AIDS Service agency
[ ] PLWHA/ PLWHA activist
[ ] Other (please explain) [ ]



Q. 2 Affiliation/Institution: (Type an X between the brackets
preceding your choice. Select only one choice)

[ ] AIDS service agency (International)
[ ] AIDS service agency (National)
[ ] University/ research institution
[ ] PLWHA organization
[ ] Bilateral agency (Eg. AusAID, Dfid, USAID)
[ ] Multi lateral agency (UN/ World Bank)
[ ] Hospital/ clinic (Health care worker)
[ ] Government employee
[ ] Human rights/ Development agency
[ ] Funding/ Donor agency
[ ] Other (Please specify) [ ]

Q. 3 (Type your answer between the brackets. Don't worry about extra
spaces at the end of your response).

1) Country [ ]
2) State [ ]
2) District (City) [ ]
3) PIN/ZIP/POST CODE [ ]

Q. 4 Gender (Type an X between the brackets of your choice. Select
only one choice)

[ ] Female
[ ] Male
[ ] Transgender

Q. 5 what age bracket do you belong to? (Type an X between the
brackets of your choice. Select only one choice.)

[ ] Less than 20
[ ] 20- 29
[ ] 30- 39
[ ] 40- 49
[ ] 50- 59
[ ] 60 +


Q. 6 How would you rate the overall value of AIDS INDIA e FORUM as a
regular source of AIDS related information? (Type an X between the
brackets of your choice. Select only one choice.)

[ ] Excellent
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Q. 7 How many of the AIDS INDIA e forum messages do you read
weekly?. (Type an X between the brackets of your choice. Select
only one choice).

[ ] All or almost all (75-100%)
[ ] Many (50-75%)
[ ] Some (25-50%)
[ ] A few (10-25%)
[ ] Very little (less than 10%)


Q. 8 How frequently do you participate in discussion on AIDS INDIA e
FORUM? (Type an X between the brackets of your choice. Select only
one choice.)

[ ] Weekly
[ ] Fortnightly
[ ] Once a month
[ ] Once in three months
[ ] Once in six months
[ ] Never


Q. 9 What are your reasons for not participating in discussions on
the FORUM? (Type an X between the brackets of your choice you wish
to select. Choose All that is Applicable).

[ ] Too much information
[ ] Prohibitive cost and expenses of the internet
[ ] My agency prohibits posting messages on the e FORUMS
[ ] Do not have regular access to internet connection
[ ] No time/too busy
[ ] Am happy just to read the discussions
[ ] Not confident in English
[ ] Don't know how to submit messages
[ ] Reluctant to give opinions in public
[ ] Other, specify [ ]


Q. 10 what type of messages do you find most useful? (Type an X
between the brackets of your choice you wish to select. Choose all
that is Applicable).

[ ] Discussion of specific topics by other subscribers
[ ] Announcements of conferences, scholarships, web sites,
job vacancies, etc.
[ ] Journal articles, book references
[ ] Conference coverage
[ ] Project reports, lessons learned, best practices
[ ] Links to resources on the Internet
[ ] Cross postings from other lists
[ ] Requests for information (RFI)
[ ] Other, please specify [ ]


Q. 11 In which ways do you use the information from the AIDS INDIA e
FORUM in your work? (Type an X between the brackets preceding each
choice you wish to select. Choose All That Apply).

[ ] To increase current knowledge and awareness about HIV/AIDS
[ ] Program development/ Policy development
[ ] Clinical management
[ ] Teaching, research
[ ] Share information with my colleagues
[ ] Networking
[ ] Print messages and keep these in the resource centre
[ ] Other, specify [ ]


Q. 12 Can you give an example of how the AIDS INDIA e FORUM has been
helpful to you in your work?

(Type your answer between the brackets, using as much space as
necessary. Do not worry about extra spaces at the end of your
response.)

[ ]


Q. 13 In the last one month have you done any of the following after
having seen/read on the AIDS-INDIA e FORUM. (Type an X between the
brackets of your choice you wish to select. Choose all that is
Applicable).

[ ] Not Applicable
[ ] Visited a website of a project
[ ] Down loaded a publication or online resource
[ ] Requested for more information
[ ] Registered for an event (training, workshop, meeting)
[ ] Contacted other people/organization whom I have never contacted
before
[ ] Responded to an advocacy call for action
[ ] Other (Please specify)


Q. 14 How many other HIV/AIDS related discussion groups do you
subscribe to? (Type an X between the brackets of your choice. Select
only one choice).

[ ] Member of only this FORUM
[ ] 1-5 Forums
[ ] 6-10 Forums
[ ] More than 11 FORUMS

Q. 15. What is the most important benefit you had by being on this
FORUM?

(Type an X between the brackets of your choice you wish to select.
Choose all that is Applicable)

[ ] Got my current job
[ ] Attended a conference
[ ] Received a scholarship
[ ] Beneficial information about grants/funds
[ ] More aware of the HIV/AIDS policies
[ ] Extended my friendship/contact net work
[ ] Other benefits (please list)


Q. 16 where do you usually access your e-mails from? (Type an X
between the brackets preceding your choice. Select only one choice.)

[ ] From my office/ Work Place
[ ] From my home
[ ] Internet Café
[ ] From my home and office


Q. 17. How frequently do you check your e-mails? (Type an X between
the brackets of your choice. Select only one choice).

[ ] Daily
[ ] 2-3 times in a week
[ ] Once in a week
[ ] Few times in a month


Q. 18. How would you assess the quantity/Number of the messages
posted on the FORUM? (Type an X between the brackets preceding your
choice. Select only one choice.)

[ ] Too many messages are posted daily
[ ] 4 - 5 messages posted daily is fine with me
[ ] Post more the 5 messages in a day
[ ] Reduce the postings to 2-3 messages


Q. 19. What type of network access do you have? (Type an X between
the brackets of your choice. Select only one choice).

[ ] Direct dial up net work (Slow connection)
[ ] Direct broad band connection (ADSL, Cable, ISDN) (Faster
connection)
[ ] Part of a LAN. (My computer is linked to an office computer
network)
[ ] Don't know


Q. 20 please share your suggestions to improve the contents of AIDS-
INDIA e FORUM. (Type your answer between the brackets, using as much
space as necessary. Don't worry about extra spaces at the end of
your response.)

[ ]

Q. 21 Any other comments about the Forum?

[ ]

Thank you for your feedback.

Please e-mail the filled questionnaire to <joe_thomas123@...>

Community Aid and Sponsorship Programme
Technical Support Unit, Invites Recruitment Applications

CASP invites applications from committed development professionals
for the project Gujarat TSU (Technical Support Unit). The TSU is a
three (3) year project, which is supported by the National AIDS
Control Organization (NACO). The core objective of setting up a TSU
is to support State HIV /AIDS programs particularly in Gujarat, Diu,
Daman, and Dadra & Nagarhaveli. State AIDS Prevention Society(ies) in
the areas of Targeted Interventions, Strategic Planning, Capacity
Building, HIV mainstreaming and Private / Public partnership.

(1) Team Leader – TSU & TI (Targeted Intervention)

Position Position Based at Ahmedabad, Guj. (Salary 55K per month)
Essentials: MBA / MSW / MHA (Health) from a certified reputed
Institution.

Work experience: Progressive work experience with NRHM / RCH II /
NACP and other Interactional agency. At least 10 years of full time
experience at middle level position on development sector including 4
years of experience with specific to Target Intervention.
Desirables: Ready to travel 50% travel time, full knowledge about
Targeted Interventions.

Job description:  Assisting SACS in identifying and building
capacities of NGO, CBO and Civil Society partners. Mobilize
partnerships for implementation of interventions involving NGO/CBO
and Civil Society. The key steps include: Orientation to SACS team on
TI strategy of NACO & State PIP. • Support for needs assessment,
mapping & TI planning. • Evolving a state TI roll out plan. • Assist
SACS for identification of NGO partners.• Facilitate in identifying
Capacity building institutes. • Developing curriculum & training
manuals. • Capacity building for NGO/ CBO on program & financial
aspects. • Field based monitoring & evaluation. • Documenting &
disseminating best practices. • Evolve mechanisms for linkages
between prevention & care programs. • Developing strategies for
transition to CBOs.  •Strategies for private sector participation
(STI franchising, supporting TIs).


(2)  Team Leader – Strategic Planning

Position based at: A'bad, Guj. (Salary: 35K per month)
Essentials: MBA / MHA (Health) / MD (PSM) from a certified reputed
institution.

Work Experience: Progressive work experience with NRHM / RCH-II /
NACP, At least 10 years of exp. in middle level position at state
level in Planning, Designing, Data Management and Implementation to
the programme.

Desirables: Ready to travel 50% travel time, good in qualitative and
quantitative analysis, good knowledge of decision tree analysis, CPM,
PERT, Probability.

Job Description:  • Prepare of Annual Action Plan (AAP) by end of
December for following Financial Year • Data from CMIS and SACS •
Data from Programmes implemented outside SACS budget by development
Partners, NGOs etc.  • Assess and analyze resources (human,
institutional and financial) available in districts for identifying
cost effective strategies to achieve NACP objectives. • Assess and
analyse funds available in NRHM and other government departments to
be obtained for the AAP activities in cash or kind • Develop division
wise activity plans in consultation with the Program Officers in SACS
to ensure timely implementation and utilization of funds • Submission
of quarterly programmed and financial plans for SACS to NACO.

(3)Team Leader- Leveraging with Pvt. Sector

Position based at: A'bad, Guj. (Salary: 35K per month)
Essentials:  MBA - General Management / Marketing / MHA (Health) from
a certified reputed institution.

Work Experience: Progressive work experience with reputed
companies/NGOs/ Developmental partners in Health Care or allied with
at least 10 years experience in middle level position including 4
years experience in Health related sectors.

Desirables: Ready to travel 50% travel time, adequate understanding
of private sector in Gujarat, Daman and Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli,
good linkages in health sector, understanding of Corporate Social
Responsibility issues, good understanding of contract management.

Job Description: Develop and assist in signing contracts with private
providers  • Explore opportunities for social marketing through
various networks, groups • Assist SACS in developing social marketing
models in urban/ rural areas • Facilitate training programs and
providing guidelines / materials  •  Assist in monitoring demand and
supply chain issues  •  Ensure periodic reporting and quality
assurance aspects • Develop contracts with private providers  •
Facilitate access to Drug Supply Systems.

Computer Skills required. Good knowledge of SPSS, EPI-info, Strata.
Note: Women and PLHAs are encouraged to apply. CASP is an equal
opportunity provider.

In subject line please mention the post applied for with a covering
letter addressed to Executive Director- CASP and send in your
detailed resume in a soft copy only by Email on casp_hr@... on
or before 31st December 2008.

"viratdave2000" <viratdave2000@...>

Dear All,


Greetings from YRG CARE!


YRG CARE is delighted to announce THE YRG CARE BIOETHICS SYMPOSIUM 2009 to be
held in Hotel Quality Inn Sabari, T. Nagar, Chennai on January 11, 2009
(Sunday). The Symposium will explore ethical issues in research involving human
participants. Faculty includes national and international experts in the field
of bioethics. Participation is on first-come-first-served basis, and the number
of participants is limited to 30. There is no registration fee. No scholarship
will be provided by YRG CARE. Kindly fill in the Registration Form and email it
to the Organizing Committee by December 31, 2008.


ABOUT YRG CARE:


YRGCARE is a non-profit medical and research institution in Chennai which
provides medical care for more than 11,000 persons with HIV disease. Currently
more than 6000 persons are receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy at
YRGCARE.


YRGCARE conducts several clinical, epidemiological, psychosocial and biomedical
research studies in collaboration with National Institutes of Health-US; Brown
University, RI; University of California-San Diego, CA; Tufts University, MA;
Johns Hopkins University, MD; Stanford University, CA; University of
California-San Francisco, CA; Emory University, GA; Rush University, IL;
McFarlane Institute, Melbourne; Tuberculosis Research Centre/ICMR; National AIDS
Research Institute/ICMR; Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai; Ragas Dental College,
Chennai and University of Madras. YRGCARE is one of the clinical research site
for Therapeutics Clinical Trials of ACTG/NIH.


YRGCARE has contributed more than 150 original scientific manuscripts to HIV
Medicine literature and to develop Treatment Guidelines for resource limited
settings.


Best regards,

Organizing Committee
Contact persons: Mr. AK Ganesh (ganesh@...) & Dr. S. Swarnalakshmi
(Swarna@...)


REGISTRATION FORM

NAME:

DESIGNATION:

INSTITUTIONAL AFFILIATION & ADDRESS:

CITY:

CONTACT NUMBER (MOBILE):

EMAIL:



THE YRG CARE BIOETHICS SYMPOSIUM 2009

Date: Sunday, January 11, 2009
Time: 8.00 -16.00
Venue: Oxford Hall, Sabari Convention Center, Hotel Quality Inn Sabari, # 29,
Thirumalai Pillai Road, T. Nagar Chennai 600 017

AGENDA

08:00  REGISTRATION

09:00  Welcome & Introductory Remarks (Dr. Suniti Solomon, Director, YRG CARE)

09:30 Keynote Address (Dr. Jayapaul Azariah, Bioethicist & Member, YRG CARE)

10:00 Ethical Issues in Male Circumcision as a Prevention for HIV Infection (Dr.
Richard Cash, Director, Program on Ethical Issues in International Health
Research, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, US)

10:45  Ethical issues in research on vaccines for HIV (Dr. Anant Bhan,
Independent Researcher, Bioethics and Public Health, Pune)

11:30  Insurance for clinical trial participants and the Law (Dr SV Joga Rao,
LegalExcel, Advocates, Solicitors & Healthcare Consultants, Bangalore)

12:15  Risk/benefit Analysis in Research Ethics (Dr Nandini .K Kumar,
Consultant, ICMR, New Delhi)

1:00 LUNCH & SCREENING OF AIDS JaaGO: Four cinematic short films on HIV/AIDS

2:00  HIV and Research Ethics (Dr. G. D. Ravindran, Professor of Medicine and
Medical Ethics, St. John's Medical College, Bangalore)

2:45  TEA BREAK

3:00  Meeting the Ethical Challenges in Biomedical Research (Dr. Vasantha
Muthuswamy, Head (Retd.), Division of Basic Medical Sciences, Traditional
Medicine and Bio-Medical Ethics, ICMR, New Delhi)

3:45  Vote of Thanks (Dr. S. Swarnalakshmi, YRG CARE)


Thank you.

Regards,
Swarna
----------------------------------------------
S. Swarnalakshmi, Ph.D.,
IRB/CAB/Regulatory Coordinator
YR Gaitonde Center for AIDS Research and Education
YRG CARE
Voluntary Health Services
Rajiv Gandhi Salai
Taramani
Chennai 600 113
Tel.: 044 - 22542929-38 and 044 - 28154242
Fax: 91 44 22542939
Website: www.yrgcare.org

Dear friends,
 
This is a great  news that Bhopal network of  positive people  becoming a
leading  role in networking in the  NGO level in  Bhopal.

On 20th December there was a meeting of NGOs of Bhopal and  many NGOs shared
their  views and  offered their  support to BPNP+. It shows that  there is a 
momentum among the  people  to work with in full heart. MPNP+ started  many
district level  network in  the districts.

I think  if the  NGOs  from different  districts can  collaborate with  these
groups.  When we  network with these  group, we should  keep in mind that we
whould  not  market our NGO and they should  not be a  receiver of  favours.

We shall  make our SAATHIs very friendly and we shall not  seperate them with
special rules and  catogories. Let us  not  make  this  as bussiness. If one
wants  to be  reall social worker the  the real concern should  be the
humanitarian concept. We shall help the people and we care our PLHAs. Dont make 
use them for  our projects.  If  the  NGOs can find some fund allocation for
PLHAs care in our TI, and awareness program, then we are  doing  justice.
 
Saving the rest of the  humanity is  the old story. dear friends in NGOs, if 
you are  doing  something, let us hand  with  our networks.

We shall find  out good  NGOs and FBOs in our country. If we can make stategies 
with  NGOs and Networks then  I will say we are  not  late to prevent  this 
disease. NGOs are working in the grass root level.

We shall use those  networks for this.
 
School sex education in connectiion with this  disease. Fun ! how  you will
give. Going to the school taking  one  our class on HIV Aids. Then  the  childre
will ask  some  questions. Class finished the NGO vanished. what  about the 
follow  up. We can do surveys  in the  colleges  and  show the  shocking  datas
to the people. The  parents are  getting frightened.
 
Dear Networks and NGOs  come  forward and  make  strategies for  local  level
not  for the  national level. Because  we are still in below  povety line(55%
World Bank Survey)
 
John Thomas

MSW Student, BSSS College
Bhopal
e-mail: <tom4youall@...>

Dear forum,

This is regarding the global financial crisis affecting the life of people
living with HIV/AIDS worldwide especially in India.

Many of the advanced countries is undergoing financial crisis, many of the MNC
is running out of finance has their shares are declining.

In this case will this financial crisis affect the treatment aspects of PLHA,
coz my fear is that how far will UN and GFATM is going to face this.

According to my point of view if somebody doesn't have finance for themselves
how are they going to donate money? Will global fund face hardship in collecting
money? Hope Global fund will take necessary steps in this issue that it will not
affect their objective.

Recently in the newspaper THE HINDU dated 18/12/2008 there was news about the
World food program cutting their rations in the country Ethiopia, where people
are starving without food; In that case what will be the scenario in the state
of tamilnadu, where Nutrition supplement are given in the ART centers which is
supported by World Food Program and will it continue or not.

My fear is that being India one among the developing countries are mainly
relying on foreign funds in treating HIV/AIDS and this financial crisis should
not affect the people living with HIV/AIDS in India.

My dear forum members please correct me if I am wrong, because I am not a
financial expert to analyze this issue.

Please do clarify my doubt.

Regards,

Gnanasekar,
09941731724
e-mail: <gnanasekar_sekar@...>

FELLOWSHIP IN HIV MEDICINE AT MAULANA AZAD MEDICAL COLLEGE, NEW DELHI

With the progressive spread of the HIV epidemic in India, the need
for HIV clinical services is increasing many fold. The care of HIV
patients is also hampered by the reluctance of health professionals
to take care of affected patients. As a result of this, doctors and
hospitals involved in HIV care are increasingly overburdened.

Regional Training Centre, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi
(RTC, MAMC, New Delhi) is offering a one year clinical training
Fellowship in HIV Medicine for doctors at a secondary care level to
address these deficiencies.

Keeping in mind the time constraints of
practicing doctors, this course consists of distance education,
local projects and 6 weeks of contact at MAMC, New Delhi, in four
short parts.  Our approach is to select doctors who are already
interested and involved in HIV care, upgrade their knowledge and
skills in this field and to work with them to improve the capacity
of their hospitals in HIV care.

Course eligibility: MBBS with or without postgraduate qualification.
The candidates with post graduate qualification will have an added
advantage. Should have interest in HIV care, employed in a secondary
hospital (small or medium size hospital or clinic) in India; doctors
working with NGO's and in community care projects will also be
considered. Doctors from both non-governmental and governmental
organisations are eligible.

Selection criteria: Experience and interest in HIV care, the
capacity of their institution to undertake HIV care, a project
outline and the administrative support of their institution.
Preference would be given to doctors from northern states of India.

Course faculty:  Specialists from various disciplines viz. Medicine,
Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Community Medicine,
Microbiology, Psychiatry, Skin and VD, Radiology, Ophthalmology,
Blood Bank, Pharmacology.

Course structure (1 year duration): The course consists of 4 contact
programs at  RTC, MAMC, New Delhi of 6 weeks duration, distance
learning course (14 modules over 4 months) and project work of 6
months duration.

Contact courses: During the contact courses at RTC, MAMC, New Delhi,
the students will have hands-on clinical experience in the out-
patient and in-patient services, laboratory practicals, counselling
experience, PLHWA interaction, exposure to the community and
interaction with NGOs. They will develop their detailed project
plans during this period and enhance networking within their group.

Distance course: The distance learning modules are carefully
organised to facilitate active learning through case based
excercises, reflection on practice and constant feedback. They will
also interact with State AIDS Control Socieities in their respective
states.

Project work: The aim of project work is to establish basic HIV care
at the students' institutions and improve its quality and
utilisation. The projects are planned and implemented with the
guidance of MAMC faculty in collaboration with faculty of the
supporting organization of the candidates to develop outpatient, in-
patient care, HIV testing, infection control and staff education.

The course will begin in March 2009. The prospectus and application
form may be obtained from:

Room no. 362/355,
Office of Regional Training Centre
MAMC,
New Delhi.
E-mail-hivmedicine_mamc@...
011-23234939,23238187, 23233707, 23239271 Ext:220,

The prospectus and application form may also be downloaded from
www.fhmindia.org,www. mamc.ac.in/www.mamc.nic.in

The last date for submission of applications is 24th January 2009.

COURSE CO-ORDINATORS:

Dr. Suneela Garg, Professor, Dept. of Community Medicine, MAMC, New
Delhi
Dr. V.K.Gupta, Professor, Dept. of Community Medicine, MAMC, New
Delhi

TRAINING OFFICER:
Mr. Mohan Raj,R., Fellowship in HIV Medicine, Regional Training
Centre, MAMC, New Delhi


M. Meghachandra Singh
e-mail:  <megharita@...>

Dear FORUM,

Social light Communctions (SLC) is the first economic empowerment wing of PWN+.
It is a designing and printing unit. This year we have made desktop calendars.

This is to send a mail to other organisations to get orders for calendars.

WE Calendars are for sale by Women and Wealth Project - in partnership with UNDP
– RCC and PDA, Thailand by Women living with HIV AIDS in India and Cambodia
Positive Women Network (PWN+) has developed 2009 Calendars featuring women
living with HIV AIDS engaged as business entrepreneurs in reducing stigma and
improving living standards of women living with HIV AIDS through Sociallight
Communications.

Social Light Communications first economic empowerment wing of PWN+, a design
and print company constituted and managed by women living with HIV.

Our services include: Posters. Flex banners, Hoardings, Calendars, Brochures,
logo creation, website designing, leaflets, booklets, folders, catalogues and
pamphlets. Only 500 more WE calendars are left for sale. Hurry place your orders
nowEach calendar costs Rs. 60/-only (courier charges extra). 10% discount for
orders above 100 calendars.

Call Ms. Binu (+91-9444278747) to order your copies or e-mail:
binu.sahayam@...

Regards

Ms. Binu
Positive Women Network (PWN+)
e-mail: <poswonet@...>

Hello all,

They say media reflects society, but isn't media also need to check
what it projects? This morning I came across an advertisement in one
of the frontrunner newspapers of the country- Hindustan Times
proclaiming cure for AIDS. You can check it out at this link

'Article/Photograph<http://epaper.hindustantimes.com//artMailDisp.aspx?article=2\
1_12_2008_009_009&typ=1&pub=47>

or turn to page 9 of HT (December 21).

As a mediaperson myself, I know there is minimal link between
editorial and advertising sections of a newspaper, which results in
such difference of opinion.

Having said that I believe there is  greater need for a media company to ensure
that all their staff  members are aware of what is unacceptable.

Newspaper builds its  credibility to woo readers who in turn get advertisers. It
cannot wash off his hands from the content by claiming that the  responsibility
lies with the advertiser.

The harm has been done, but we need to ensure it's not repeated.

Manu Moudgil
e-mail: <mann_sdchd@...>

HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis Use Among Ontario Female Adolescent
Sexual Assault Victims: A Prospective Analysis

Sexually Transmitted Diseases Vol. 35; No. 12: P. 973-978
(12..08):: Janice Du Mont, EdD; Terri L. Myhr, MSc; Heather Husson,
BA; Sheila Macdonald, MN; Anita Rachlis, MD; Mona R. Loutfy, MD, MPH

The authors examined HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) - its
provision, uptake, adherence, and other related factors - among
female sexual assault survivors from September 2003 to January 2005.

Sexual assault patients of all ages were universally offered PEP
through the HIV PEP Project. The investigators collected baseline and
follow-up data from consecutive clients seen at 18 hospital-based
sexual assault treatment centers in Ontario.

Among 386 patients, 94.5 percent were single, 68 percent lived with
their family, and 67.4 percent were attending school. Just 42.7
percent accepted PEP and 33.6 percent completed the 28-day course of
drugs. The factors associated with uptake were provider
encouragement, being a student, and being moderately to highly
anxious. Completion of the full PEP course was associated with being
white and knowing the assailant for less than 24 hours.

"Our findings highlight the importance of the health care provider's
role in counseling sexually assaulted female adolescents about HIV
PEP use," concluded the authors. "The results also suggest that at-
risk adolescents not enrolled in school and those from culturally
diverse backgrounds may require additional supports."
___________________

HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis Use Among Ontario Female Adolescent
Sexual Assault Victims: A Prospective Analysis.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases. 35(12):973-978, December 2008.
Du Mont, Janice EdD *+; Myhr, Terri L. MSc *; Husson, Heather BA ++;
Macdonald, Sheila MN [S][//]; Rachlis, Anita MD [P]#; Loutfy, Mona R.
MD, MPH *#

Abstract:

Background: This study examined the use of HIV postexposure
prophylaxis (PEP) among sexually assaulted adolescent females.
Methods: We analyzed data from the HIV PEP Project, an implementation
and evaluation of a program of universal offering of PEP to sexual
assault victims of all ages. Baseline and follow-up data were
collected prospectively from consecutive clients seen at 18 hospital-
based sexual assault treatment centers in Ontario, Canada from
September 2003 to January 2005. Among 386 at-risk female adolescents,
we examined the provision and uptake of and adherence to PEP, and
factors related to antiretroviral acceptance and completion.

Results: Most adolescents were single (94.5%), living with family
(68.0%), and attending school (67.4%). Slightly over two-fifths
(42.7%) accepted and one-third (33.6%) completed the 28-day course of
PEP. Factors associated with PEP acceptance were health care provider
encouragement, being a student, and being moderately-to-highly
anxious. PEP completion was associated with being white and an
assailant known less than 24 hours.

Conclusions: Our findings highlight the importance of the health care
provider's role in counseling sexually assaulted female adolescents
about HIV PEP use. The results also suggest that at-risk adolescents
not enrolled in school and those from culturally diverse backgrounds
may require additional supports.

(C) Copyright 2008 American Sexually Transmitted Diseases Association

Dear Forum,

Symposia on "Recent trends in AIDS treatment" was organized on 19th of December
2008 at India Hotel, Varanasi. 25 Senior Physicians from Varanasi, Jaunpur and
nearby Cities attended the workshop.

Key Note Speaker was Dr Diwakar Tejaswi, Medical Director, Regional AIDS
Training Center and Network in India (RATNEI), International Health
Organization, Patna and session was Chaired by ART Center incharge of Institute
of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Dr (Prof) Shyam Sundar
Agarwal.

Dr Diwakar Tejaswi discussed the 25 agents from 6 classes of available Anti
Retrovirals with their side effects and distributed the drug drug interaction
chart. He also elaborated the advantages of once a dose therapy along with
different options. Dr Shyam Sundar infomed that more than 6000 patients are
enrolled at IMS BHU ART Center and the number is growing fastly.


Mr Gyanesh Ranjan
Public Awareness for Healthful Approach for Living (PAHAL)
Harinarayan Complex, Exhibition Road
Patna 800001
India
Telefax: +91-612-2206964

Dr Diwakar Tejaswi
E-MAIL: <diwakartejaswi@...>

Reminder(2)AIDS INDIA e FORUM subscriber survey: Questionnaire
(12/08)


AIDS INDIA e FORUM subscriber survey: Questionnaire (12/08)

Few days ago you must have received an announcement about this survey
on the AIDS-INDIA e FOURUM. This is an evaluation of the
effectiveness of a peer to peer, HIV/AIDS related electronic
discussion group. We are interested in finding out how to make this
FOURM more useful to you and your work.

We would appreciate, greatly if you could help us by taking a few
minutes to answer this short survey. Your valuable feedback will
assist us to meet your needs better and to improve this service in
support of AIDS prevention and care initiatives in India.

This is a voluntary survey, and confidentiality of your identity will
be respected. A copy of the results of this study will be made
available to you. There are twenty questions in this questionnaire.

Please answer all questions and reply by e-mail before December 30th,
2008 to <joe_thomas123@...>

Thank you

Joe Thomas
Moderator, AIDS-INDIA e FORUM
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/AIDS-INDIA/
______________________________________

INSTRUCTIONS

First hit "Reply" to this email message. Then simply type an 'X'
where appropriate. When you have answered all the questions,
press "send" to send the email message.


Q. 1 what is your profession? (Type an X between the brackets
preceding your choice. Select only one choice)

[ ] Student
[ ] Government/ Civil Service
[ ] Researcher/ Academic
[ ] Social Worker/ Counsellor
[ ] Staff of AIDS Service agency
[ ] PLWHA/ PLWHA activist
[ ] Other (please explain) [ ]



Q. 2 Affiliation/Institution: (Type an X between the brackets
preceding your choice. Select only one choice)

[ ] AIDS service agency (International)
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Q. 3 (Type your answer between the brackets. Don't worry about extra
spaces at the end of your response).

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2) State [ ]
2) District (City) [ ]
3) PIN/ZIP/POST CODE [ ]

Q. 4 Gender (Type an X between the brackets of your choice. Select
only one choice)

[ ] Female
[ ] Male
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Q. 5 what age bracket do you belong to? (Type an X between the
brackets of your choice. Select only one choice.)

[ ] Less than 20
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Q. 6 How would you rate the overall value of AIDS INDIA e FORUM as a
regular source of AIDS related information? (Type an X between the
brackets of your choice. Select only one choice.)

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Q. 7 How many of the AIDS INDIA e forum messages do you read
weekly?. (Type an X between the brackets of your choice. Select
only one choice).

[ ] All or almost all (75-100%)
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Q. 8 How frequently do you participate in discussion on AIDS INDIA e
FORUM? (Type an X between the brackets of your choice. Select only
one choice.)

[ ] Weekly
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Q. 9 What are your reasons for not participating in discussions on
the FORUM? (Type an X between the brackets of your choice you wish
to select. Choose All that is Applicable).

[ ] Too much information
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[ ] Other, specify [ ]


Q. 10 what type of messages do you find most useful? (Type an X
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that is Applicable).

[ ] Discussion of specific topics by other subscribers
[ ] Announcements of conferences, scholarships, web sites,
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Q. 11 In which ways do you use the information from the AIDS INDIA e
FORUM in your work? (Type an X between the brackets preceding each
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[ ] To increase current knowledge and awareness about HIV/AIDS
[ ] Program development/ Policy development
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Q. 12 Can you give an example of how the AIDS INDIA e FORUM has been
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(Type your answer between the brackets, using as much space as
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[ ]


Q. 13 In the last one month have you done any of the following after
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[ ] Contacted other people/organization whom I have never contacted
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Q. 14 How many other HIV/AIDS related discussion groups do you
subscribe to? (Type an X between the brackets of your choice. Select
only one choice).

[ ] Member of only this FORUM
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Q. 15. What is the most important benefit you had by being on this
FORUM?

(Type an X between the brackets of your choice you wish to select.
Choose all that is Applicable)

[ ] Got my current job
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[ ] Other benefits (please list)


Q. 16 where do you usually access your e-mails from? (Type an X
between the brackets preceding your choice. Select only one choice.)

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Q. 17. How frequently do you check your e-mails? (Type an X between
the brackets of your choice. Select only one choice).

[ ] Daily
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Q. 18. How would you assess the quantity/Number of the messages
posted on the FORUM? (Type an X between the brackets preceding your
choice. Select only one choice.)

[ ] Too many messages are posted daily
[ ] 4 - 5 messages posted daily is fine with me
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Q. 19. What type of network access do you have? (Type an X between
the brackets of your choice. Select only one choice).

[ ] Direct dial up net work (Slow connection)
[ ] Direct broad band connection (ADSL, Cable, ISDN) (Faster
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network)
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Q. 20 please share your suggestions to improve the contents of AIDS-
INDIA e FORUM. (Type your answer between the brackets, using as much
space as necessary. Don't worry about extra spaces at the end of
your response.)

[ ]

Q. 21 Any other comments about the Forum?

[ ]

Thank you for your feedback.

Chennai ART Symposium (CART 2009)
January 9th & 10th, 2009
Venue: GRT Grand Days Convention Center, T Nagar, Chennai
Organized by YRGCARE
 
YRGCARE is a non-profit medical and research institution in Chennai which
provides medical care for more than 11,000 persons with HIV disease. Currently
more than 6000 persons are receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy at
YRGCARE.
 
YRGCARE conducts several clinical, epidemiological, psychosocial and biomedical
research studies in collaboration with National Institutes of Health-US; Brown
University, RI; University of California-San Diego, CA; Tufts University, MA;
Johns Hopkins University, MD; Stanford University, CA; University of
California-San Francisco, CA; Emory University, GA; Rush University, IL;
McFarlane Institute, Melbourne; Tuberculosis Research Centre/ICMR; National AIDS
Research Institute/ICMR; Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai; Ragas Dental College,
Chennai and University of Madras. YRGCARE is one of the clinical research site
for Therapeutics Clinical Trials of ACTG/NIH.

YRGCARE's Infectious Diseases laboratory is quality assured by CAP, UKNEQAS,
NRL, VQA, WHO, NIH and certified by NABL. The laboratory has facilities to do
HIV diagnosis, CD4 cell count, HIV RNA quantitation, HIV genotyping, assays for
opportunistic infection diagnosis and a Mycobacterial laboratory with BACTEC
facilities. YRGCARE laboratory also carries out basic science research and is
the regional HIV genotyping laboratory for National Institutes of Health, USA

YRGCARE has contributed more than 150 original scientific manuscripts to HIV
Medicine literature and to develop Treatment Guidelines for resource limited
settings.
 
Objectives of the Symposium:
 
To provide the latest clinical update on the management of HIV disease.
To update the practicing clinicians on the current concept of antiretroviral
therapeutics, newer drugs, resistance and toxicities.
Highlights: This symposium is focused to deliver current updates on

* Pathogenesis of HIV disease
* Principles of Antiretroviral therapy
* Updates on ARV
* When to start?
* What to start?
* When to switch?
* What to switch?
* Toxicities of antiretrovirals
* Immune Reconstitution Syndrome
* Drug Resistance
* Principles in Drug Resistance
* Genotyping
* Interpretation of result
* Management of Treatment Experienced patients
* New Drugs and Targets
* HIV& TB
* HBV, HCV co-infection
* HIV & HPV
* Antiretrovirals in Prevention
* Management of Pediatric HIV infection
* HIV Medication Adherence
* Cost Effectiveness of Antiretroviral Therapy
* Laboratory Diagnosis of HIV infection

Who should attend?

Clinicians involved or interested in HIV care, medical residents and students.

International Faculty
Dr. Constance A Benson – University of California, San Diego, USA
Dr. Christine Wanke-Tufts University,Boston,USA
Dr. David Katzenstein –Stanford University, San Francisco,USA
Dr. Deborah Greenspan- UCSF,USA
Dr. Joel Palefsky- University of California,San Francisco,USA
Dr. Jose Zuniga- IAPAC,USA
Dr. John Greenspan- UCSF,USA
Dr. Kenneth Freedberg- Harvard University,Boston,USA
Dr. Kenneth Mayer – Brown University, USA
Dr. Maria Ekstrand- University of California,San Francisco,USA
Dr. Margaret Bentley- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill,USA
Dr. Paolo Miotti – NIH,USA
Dr. Rami Kantoor – Brown University, Providence, USA
Dr. Robert T Schooley – University of California, San Diego, USA
Dr. Richard Cash – Harvard University, Boston,USA

National Faculty
Dr.P.Balakrishnan, YRGCARE, VHS, Chennai
Dr.Bella Devaleenol, YRGCARE, VHS, Chennai
Dr.Kamini Walia, ICMR, New Delhi
Dr.N.Kumarasamy, YRGCARE, VHS, Chennai
Dr.Saravanan, YRGCARE, VHS, Chennai
Dr.Shoba, YRGCARE, VHS, Chennai
Dr.Srikanth Tripathy, NARI, Pune
Dr.Suniti Solomon, YRGCARE, VHS, Chennai
Dr.Sonali Kochhar, IAVI, New Delhi
Dr.Sowmya Swaminathan, TRC, Chennai
Dr.Sunil Suhas Solomon, YRGCARE, Chennai

Registration
Rs. 1000 for regular delegates; Rs. 500 for Students (with identity cards)
The registration fee includes lunch. The symposium is non-residential
Early registration closes on 02nd Jan 09, spot registration subject to
availability

For online registration and further details click:

http://www.cartonline.yrgcare.in/cart_welcome.htm
 
Contact:
Dr. N Kumarasamy
Organizing Chair, CART 2008
kumarasamy@...
Tel: 044 22542929

Mr. KG Kosala Raman
Coordinator,
kosal@...
Tel: 044 22542929
Mob: 91 9940034333

Dear Forum members,

Wish you Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2009!

Please visit our website www.aidssocietyofindia.com for much awaited
announcement on the 2nd National Conf. of ASI (ASICON 2009)

one of the must attend HIV meets in India, scheduled to be held at the
prestigious Birla Convention Centre in the Pink City of Jaipur from Feb. 27 to
March 1, 2009.

It is our joint endeavour to give a most treasured HIV meet among several of the
past and upcoming conferences that are held in different places in India and I
am sure it is possible with your sincere support.

Our International Faculty includes Deshrath Asthana, USA; David Cooper,
Australia; Hoosen and Zubie Coovadia, South Africa; Jyoti Dhar, UK; Charles
Farthing, USA; Raj Kapila, USA; Sunanda Gaur, USA; Raj Kapila, USA; Suman Laal,
USA; Srendra Patel, Kenya; Suzan Zolla Pazner, USA; Praphan Phanuphak, Thailand;
Vinayaka and Kalpana Prasad, USA; Aarthi Ramkisson, South Africa; Hiten Thaker,
UK; John Toney, USA; Mark Wainberg, Canada.

They will supplement our National Faculty that includes who's who in HIV/AIDS
from India.

Apart from assured scientific feast, we hope to provide you with excellent
Rajasthani food and hospitality. Evenings will be entertaining with cultural
extravaganza including Kalberia and other folk dances.

On behalf of my Co-chair Dr. J K Maniar and the entire organizing committee, I
look forward to your greatest involvement in the success of ASICON 2009.

Here your job starts to get best possible delegates from your
area/institution/contacts to the conference and also have them submit
abstracts before 15th Jan.2009. We would like you to block your dates for the
conference and plan your journey ahead of time to avoid last minute
disappointments.

Thanking you. Look forward to interacting with you more often as the
conference unfolds.

Beware of several AIDS meetings/conferences in India and be sure which one you
really wish to attend!

Any suggestion/comment/critic is most welcome.

Sincerely yours,

Dr I S Gilada

Hon. Secretary, ASI and Co-Chair ASICON 2009
ASI Secretariat: Unison Medicare & Research Centre,
Maharukh Mansion, Alibhai Premji Marg,
Grant Road East, Mumbai-400007
Tel. 022-23061616; Fax 23000016, E-mail gilada@...; ihoaids@...
Website: www.aidssocietyofindia.com

National Orientation cum Training Program on Blood Safety Begins at
Chandigarh

Dec 18th, 2008 | By News Team | Category: Chandigarh, Health

Manoj Godara, Chandigarh, 18th December, 2008 :An Orientation cum
Training program on Blood safety, jointly hosted by State AIDS Control
Society, Chandigarh and Blood Transfusion Council, Chandigarh, is on
the go at hotel Aroma from 18 to 20 December, 2008 under National AIDS
Control Programme (NACP) of GOI.

The conference includes the Program officers of 17 states who have congregated
to deliberate on the National Blood Policy (NBP) and communicate various
programs under NACP- III.

  Though, the focus will be essentially on discussing the
various activities carried out by the delegates in their respective
states with regard to safe blood donations. The representatives will
be taken for a field visit to various blood banks in the Tricity.

Chandigarh has been spotted as the conference venue by NACO (National
AIDS Control Organization) because of its exemplary contribution in
blood donation.

Talking on the occasion Dr Rajesh Gopal, one of the architects of NBP
with more than 10 years of experience at AIIMS and 8 years tune-up
with SACS Gujarat highlights, "For quality, safety and efficacy of
blood and blood products, well-equipped blood centers with adequate
infrastructure and trained manpower is an essential requirement. For
effective clinical use of blood, it is necessary to train clinical staff.

The need of the hour is to attain maximum safety, good manufacturing
practices and implementation of quality system moving towards total
quality management. It is healthy to donate blood and most importantly
don't wait for the problem to loom over your head to go ahead with
this noble cause rather be a cause for someone's survival. If not more
than in average a person should at least donate blood once in a year
and I strongly believe in Club 25 for a healthy start."

A well organized Blood Transfusion Service (BTS) is a vital component
of any health care delivery system. An integrated strategy for Blood
Safety is required for elimination of transfusion transmitted
infections and for provision of safe and adequate blood transfusion
service to the people. The main component of an integrated strategy
include collection of blood only from voluntary, non-remunerated blood
donors, screening for all transfusion transmitted infections and
reduction of unnecessary transfusion.

Blood transfusion is the process of transferring blood or blood-based
products from one person into the circulatory system of another. Blood
transfusions can be life-saving in some situations, such as massive
blood loss due to trauma, or can be used to replace blood lost during
surgery.

Blood transfusions may also be used to treat a severe anemia
or thrombocytopenia caused by a blood disease. People suffering from
hemophilia or sickle-cell disease may require frequent blood
transfusions. Early transfusions used Whole Blood, but modern medical
practice is to use only components of the blood.


Dr Gopal further reiterated that "the Blood Transfusion Service in the
country is highly decentralized and lacks many vital resources like
manpower, adequate infrastructure and financial base. The main issue,
which plagues blood banking system in the country, is fragmented
management. The standards vary from state to state, cities to cities
and centre to centre in the same city."

The NBP aims to ensure easily accessible and adequate supply of safe
and quality blood and blood components collected/procured from a
voluntary non-remunerated blood donor in well equipped premises, which
is free from transfusion transmitted infections, and is stored and
transported under optimum conditions and transfusion under supervision
of trained personnel for all who need it irrespective of their
economic or social status through comprehensive, efficient and a total
quality management approach.

To achieve the above aim, the following objectives are drawn:

1.    To firmly reiterate the govt. commitment to provide safe and
adequate quantity of blood, blood components and blood products.

2.    To make available adequate resources to develop and reorganize
the blood transfusion services in the entire country

3.    To make latest technology available for operating the blood
transfusion services and ensure it's functioning in an updated manner.

4.     To launch extensive awareness programs for donor information,
education, motivation, recruitment and retention in order to ensure
adequate availability of safe blood.

5.    To encourage appropriate clinical use of blood and blood products.

6.    To strengthen the manpower through human resource development.

7.    To encourage Research and Development in the field of
Transfusion Medicine and related technology.

8.    To take adequate regulatory and legislative steps for monitoring
and evaluation of blood transfusion services and take steps to
eliminate profiteering in blood banks.

The need to spread voluntary blood donation movement to states lagging
behind by involving the youth and networking of blood bank branches
were among the main issues discussed at the three-day program.

Transfusion Transmitted Infections will top the agenda while talking
about safe blood transfusion which includes a number of infectious
diseases (such as HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and hepatitis C, among
others) can be passed from the donor to recipient. This has led to
strict human blood transfusion standards in developed countries.

Standards include screening for potential risk factors and health
problems among donors and laboratory testing of donated units for
infection.

Among the diseases than can be transmitted via transfusion are:
•    HIV-1 and HIV-2
•    Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV-1 and HTLV-2)
•    Hepatitis A can be transmitted in blood
•    Hepatitis C virus
•    Hepatitis B virus
•    West Nile virus (all units of blood in the U. S. are screened for
this virus.)
•    Treponema pallidum (the causative agent of syphilis, usually used
as more of a screening test for high risk lifestyle, the last case of
transfusion transmitted syphilis was in 1965.)
•    Malaria - Donors in the United States and Europe are screened for
travel to malarial risk countries, and in Australia donors are tested
for malaria.
•    Chagas Disease - A screening test has been implemented for this
disease in the United States, but is not yet required.
•    Variant Creutzfeldt - Jakob disease or "Mad Cow Disease" has been
shown to be transmissible in blood products. No test exists for this,
but various measures have been taken to reduce risks.
•    Some medications may be transmitted in donated blood, and this is
especially a concern with pregnant women and medications such as
Avodart and Propecia.
•    Cytomegalovirus or CMV is a major problem for patients with
compromised immune systems and for neonates, but is not generally a
concern for most recipients.

Blood which tests positive for any of the diseases it is tested for is
discarded.

Earlier this National Orientation cum Training Program on Blood Safety
was inaugurated by Director Health Services, U.T. Chandigarh.

http://www.theindiapost.com/?p=7937

Dear FORUM,

This is in response to  Dr. Sarman Singh, MD. FAMS, FRSTMH, FSIIP
Prof. & Head, Division of Clinical Microbiology Department of Laboratory
Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences

Re: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/AIDS-INDIA/message/9739

Ethics forms the basis of research on vulnerable poopulations as well as
interventions. Refer to the ICMR Ethical Guidelines for Biomedical Research on
Human Participants (known as the ICMR Code)
...icmr.nic.in/ethical_guidelines.pdf.

Mandatory screening in not in any National Policy and human rights of PLHIV have
been spelt our clearly on NACO website.
http://www.nacoonline.org/Quick_Links/Know_Your_Rights/

Right to Informed Consent

The implications of HIV are very different from most other illnesses. Testing
for HIV requires specific and informed consent of the person being tested and
any research on data of HIV positive people.
 
Right to Confidentiality

A person has the right to keep information on HIV status confidential.  People
with HIV are often afraid to go to court to vindicate their rights for fear of
their HIV status becoming public knowledge. However, they can take the help of
Suppression of Identity under a pseudonym. This ensures that PLHA can seek
justice without fear of social ostracism or discrimination.

Right against Discrimination

The right to be treated equally is a fundamental right whether it's something as
simple as using a public well or something more serious like denial of housing.
 
The jail authorirties/ NGOs/ Medical institutes can arange counselling; and
those who opt for test can get the test done:- and only the person to whom the
result is given is the concerned person. Disclosure is to be done by the
affected person and counsellor can encourage the client for this once he/she is
mentally prepared.

Increasing acces to treatment has to be in an ethical way and protecting rights
of individuals to privacy and confidentiality. You would not want your medical
records to be put up on a notice board. Would you?

There is no casual transmission so why would others need to know your disease?
We are giving free ART only at CD4 < 400 (at the time when person is
sympotmatic). So does early screening of inmates give them better care?

Corecive policies have failed in public health..We all know the experience of
failure of family planning programme in emergency days.
 
Labelling is unthical.


Dr RK Sood

e-mail: drrksood@...
+91 9418064077, +91 9445157327

Dear friends

This writing pad is for us to keep our notes alongside pictures of some of the
key figures from India and around the world in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

These figures have come to signify the solidarity and public action that the
HIVepidemic has generated over the past more than 25 years.
In addition to featuring the well known, the writing pad also includes many
people living with HIV.

Many anonymous and some famous, they have almost always
contributed to the HIV response in concrete ways and been at the centre of the
response. They are artists and filmmakers, chartered accountants and
secretaries, living full and productive lives... they are us.

Interwoven throughout is an attempt to chronicle the milestones of the HIV
response worldwide-the fast track scientific response, the swift, colourful and
ingenious advocacy and activism response to the significant response from the
United Nations and international community including a groundswell of action at
the community level.

We hope that every time you turn a page you will be reminded that we are all
connected by our commitment, and that we must continue to respond to the
challenges raised by HIV.

Best regards,

Maxine Olson

UN Resident Coordinator and
UNDP Resident Representative

http://data.undp.org.in/hiv/undpdiary_aw.pdf

Free Copies  may be available from

Sabrina Sidhu,
Research and Communications Associate

UNDP India,
55 Lodi Estate,
New Delhi - 110003.
Phone: +91-11-46532270
sabrina.sidhu@...
e-mail: <sabrina.sidhu@...>
www.undp.org.in

Applications are invited for FELLOWSHIP IN HIV MEDICINE 2009
The Fellowship in HIV Medicine is a one year postgraduate level training
programme for physicians offered by Christian Medical College, Vellore.

The course is designed to (i) enhance the knowledge and skills of physicians in
HIV/AIDS at primary & secondary level and

ii) support the institution / hospital /program to initiate or improve the
already existing HIV care services during the course period.

Course structure: Total duration of the course is one year and includes:

a) 4 clinical contact programmes at the training institution (6 weeks in total);

b) Distance learning course (4 months) and

c) Project work at the candidates work place (6 months).

Participants will be able to continue their regular jobs while undertaking the
training.

Eligibility criteria: MBBS with involvement in HIV /AIDS care; currently working
in India.

For more details and a copy of the prospectus and application form, write to:

The Course Co-ordinator, Fellowship in HIV Medicine, IDTRC, 4th floor, Christian
Medical College, Vellore 632 004; Tamil Nadu.

e-mail: hivdistancelearning@... ; Tel : (0416) 228 3617, 228 2804;
Application form is available on the website www.fhmindia.org ;

Last date for submission of applications is 24th January 2009. Course commences
in March 2009.


FELLOWSHIP IN HIV MEDICINE
e-mail: <hivdistancelearning@...>

Asia Pacific Bureau AIDS Healthcare Foundation

Positions Vacant for AHF Asia Pacific Region requires "Operations
Director"

Location:  New Delhi INDIA Application Deadline: 25 December 2008

Submission instructions:

To apply please e-mail your cover letter,
resume, salary history and contact details of three professional
referees to chinkholal.thangsing@... or by regular mail to:

AIDS Healthcare Foundation
Asia Pacific Bureau
S 345, Panchsheel Park,
New Delhi 110017, India
Web: www.aidshealth.org

About AHF: AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) is the largest non-
profit, non-governmental HIVAIDS organization established in 1987 in
the United States.  AHF specializes in providing HIVAIDS medical care
and currently serves over 86,000 patients globally regardless of
their medical insurance status or ability to pay currently providing
services in 23 countries in Africa, Asia Pacific, South Africa, Latin
America and Caribbean. AHF is dedicated to its mission of
providing "cutting edge medicines and advocacy regardless of the
ability to pay".

Job Description:

Key qualifications:

• A Medical Graduate/MD/Post graduate in Preventive and social
medicine/Master of Public Health from a recognized University;

• A minimum of five years experience in related work experience
and human and organizational capacity development and high level,
operational, multi faced program management and team management.
HIVAIDS treatment experience would be an added advantage;

• Proficient in operational strategy, skills in planning,
design and project management including proposals writing, reporting,
and monitoring and evaluating interventions, programming and budget
designing;

• Excellent relational and communication skills including great
sense of diplomacy and discernment and personal commitment towards
population and beneficiaries.

• Ability to work in a multi cultural environment, a team
player, service-minded and able to work under pressure with good
communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to interact and work
with health professionals, national counterparts, nongovernmental
organizations and international agencies.

• Must possess an adequate computer skills including use of
internet/ e-mail application and MS-Office software, such as Word,
Excel, PowerPoint, etc.;

Roles and Responsibilities:

Operations Director's main responsibilities:

Under the Asia Pacific Bureau Chief direction and supervision the
Operations Director is responsible for managing and coordinating AHF
Asia Pacific programmes in our intervention areas. The roles and
responsibilities include:

• To ensure the coordination of all operational aspects of
projects implementation, follow up and reporting, monitoring and
evaluation with attention to organisational commitment, relations
with local authorities and NGOs, partners and collaborators.

• To ensure projects pertinence and quality of their
implementation, general coherence, consistency of delivery of
services, projects.

• To actively participate to the operational strategy
(orientations and project proposals) design with the Bureau Chief.

• To manage and train staff involve in direct operations,
technical support coordinators.

• To ensure proper management of the logistics department,
application of AHF security rules by all personnel.

• To collaborate closely with program managers, coordinator for
project proposal development, resource acquisition, follow up, data
compilation, regular and timely reporting, budget design and follow
up.

Activities

• Supervises the programmes implementation in the provinces and
report on  activities and the general HIVAIDS related situation to
the Bureau Chief;

• Ensures the programming of activities on a annual, quarterly
and monthly basis and organise findings and results of activities,
project follow up data collection;

• Ensures that relevant data are collected, cross check
information and produce timely reporting;

• Designs and follow individual action plans for program
coordinators and technical support coordinators and appraise the
performances and achievements on a regular basis;

• Designs and ensures the enforcement of projects'
implementation plans and design indicators and work closely with the
Monitoring and evaluation staff related to program impact studies and
general outcome;

• Ensures timely submission of monthly funds requests by
Program coordinators and submit them on time to the Bureau Chief for
final approval;

• Ensures good maintenance, use and allocation of logistics
means, and maintain good communication system and network to ensure
regular flow of information between the country offices and the
various departments within the bureau;

• Participate and take an active part in the design and
implementation of the quality insurance process;

• Identifies opportunities for developing AHF program
activities, business plans consistent with program strategy,
evaluation and monitoring department, methodology, data collection,
training etc.

• Others as assigned.

Additional Information

• A probation period of six months.

• AHF is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.
It does not discriminate against employees or applicants on the basis
of race, color, sex, gender, religion, creed, national and ethnic
origin, age, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, or any
other legally protected status.

• Selected candidate must be available to begin work in
January/February 2009.

• Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for
interviews.

Compensation and benefits:

• Compatible



Dr Chinkholal Thangsing
AIDS Healthcare Foundation
Asia Pacific Bureau
S 345, Panchsheel Park,
New Delhi 110017, India
Web: www.aidshealth.org
e-mail: chinkholal.thangsing@...

Dear FORUM,

Re: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/AIDS-INDIA/message/9742

I quite understand the view of Madhusmit Pati. If HIV Positive inmates
are to be taken care of then it is imperative that the officials of
the jail know about the status of the inmates.

But when they are given differential treatment like boiled water to
drink and less work, then wont the other inmates also come to know
about their status? What about the confidentiality? How is their
health taken care of without breach of confidentiality?

Priyamvada Chaturvedi

DRISHTIKON
e-mail: <drishtikon95@...>

Vacancy Notice - National Consultant (HIV Prevention)

Organistion: World Health Organisation (WHO), India

Duty Station: New Delhi

Duration: One Year (with a possibility of an extension depending on
the performance of the individual and programme needs)

Terms of Reference:

Under the overall supervision of the WHO Representative to
India/Public Health Administrator and with day-to-day guidance from
the Medical Officer (HIV), the incumbent will perform the following
duties:

· Provide technical assistance in prevention including sexually-
transmitted infections (STI) and HIV in populations at highest risk

· Support capacity building of national and regional training
institutions in STI/HIV prevention, care and treatment

· Support technical assistance and capacity building in monitoring
and evaluation of the HIV prevention programme

· Support advocacy, dissemination and adaptation to local
languages `the WHO Integrated Management of Adult and Adolescent
Illness (IMAI) modules for India '

· Undertake any other issues as requested by the supervisor

· Provide the end-of-assignment report to the WHO Representative to
India .

Educational Qualifications/Experience/Other skills required:

Essential -

· Degree in medicine with a relevant post-graduate degree in public
health/community medicine/social sciences from a recognized
university.

· Minimum of 4 years working experience, with at least 2 years in HIV
and/or STI

· Operational experience at state and district levels

· Experience in developing and providing capacity building/training
for health care providers


Desirable - Experience in managing databases and/or Monitoring and
Evaluation systems

Applications from women are encouraged.

Deadline for receipt of applications is 05 January 2009.

Interested candidates are requested to submit three copies of their
brief resume of qualifications, experience and skills, and give
reasons for being suitable for the position, to:

The Administrative Officer
Office of the WHO Representative to India
Room No. 537, "A" Wing, Nirman Bhavan
Maulana Azad Road
New Delhi-110011

Or by email to: naithanip@...

http://whoindia.org/LinkFiles/Vacancy_Vacancy-(National_ConsultantHIV_prevention\
).pdf

Advertisement for Career growth oriented vacancies in

Monitoring and Evaluation field of HIV/AIDS at

National AIDS Research Institute (NARI) Pune

Bill and Melinda Gates foundation (BMGF), India is implementing "Avahan India AIDS Initiative", to prevent the spread of HIV infection among populations at high risk of HIV infection in the select districts of six high prevalent states and national Highways. Targeted populations for the interventions are Female Sex Workers (FSW - various types), Clients of FSWs, Men having sex with Men (MSM), Injecting Drug Users (IDUs) and Long Distance Truck Drivers (LDTD).

To measure the major outcomes and impacts of the interventions funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) under the Avahan India AIDS Initiative (Avahan), the Integrated Behavioral and Biological Assessment (IBBA) surveys are planned at periodic interval. The first round of IBBA was completed in year 2007 and second round is being planned in the year 2009. Family Health International (FHI) New Delhi is providing technical support for the assessment.

Since it is the first project of its kind, it involves a large amount of planning and support infrastructure. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and its affiliate research institutes are handling the study in different states. In Maharashtra, National AIDS Research Institute (NARI) is implementing IBBA in six districts viz. Kolhapur, Mumbai, Parbhani, Pune, Thane and Yevatmal. Following posts are advertised for the above project the Integrated Behavioral and Biological Assessment - Round 2 (IBBA- R2).

*********************************

Applications are invited from the willing candidates who wish to enhance their career graph in the field of HIV/AIDS Monitoring and evaluation of the intervention programmes.  All the positions are based in Pune at Integrated Behavioral and Biological Assessment (IBBA) project office and National AIDS Research Institute, Bhosari, Pune 411026. Some positions require extensive travel within Maharashtra. All positions are on ad-hoc project basis and are full time in nature.

It is expected the candidate for the positions mentioned below are:

• Proficient in computers.
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Knowledge of Marathi and Hindi
• Ability to work in a team

Interested candidates should submit application on plain paper, full bio data and attested copies of proof of age, qualification, experience along with original certificate (S.S.C., H.S.C., Degree, Date of Birth, etc.) Along with a cross Demand Draft for Rs.25/- drawn in favor of Director National AIDS Research Institute 73, 'G' Block MIDC, Bhosari, P.B. 1895, Pune 411026 (Payable at Bhosari, Pune). Government servants should apply through proper channel. Director, NARI reserves the right to shortlist candidates to be interviewed. Any canvassing by or on behalf of the candidates or bringing political or other influence with regards to selection shall be considered a disqualification. Age, Experience and Qualifications would be relaxable in case of exceptional ability or experience with deserving cases.

A Code of the post for which the application is made should be clearly mentioned on envelop of the application. Last date for submitting applications is January 7, 2009. By January 15-20 the candidates would be intimated over e-mail about the interview date.

Providing E-mail address is mandatory.

DIRECTOR

_____________

mandar5670. <mkmandar@...>

AIDS INDIA e FORUM subscriber survey: Questionnaire (12/08)

Few days ago you must have received an announcement about this survey
on the AIDS-INDIA e FOURUM. This is an evaluation of the
effectiveness of a peer to peer, HIV/AIDS related electronic
discussion group. We are interested in finding out how to make this
FOURM more useful to you and your work.

We would appreciate, greatly if you could help us by taking a few
minutes to answer this short survey. Your valuable feedback will
assist us to meet your needs better and to improve this service in
support of AIDS prevention and care initiatives in India.

This is a voluntary survey, and confidentiality of your identity will
be respected. A copy of the results of this study will be made
available to you. There are twenty questions in this questionnaire.

Please answer all questions and reply by e-mail before December 30th,
2008 to <joe_thomas123@...>

Thank you

Joe Thomas
Moderator, AIDS-INDIA e FORUM
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/AIDS-INDIA/
______________________________________

INSTRUCTIONS

First hit "Reply" to this email message. Then simply type an 'X'
where appropriate. When you have answered all the questions,
press "send" to send the email message.


Q. 1 what is your profession? (Type an X between the brackets
preceding your choice. Select only one choice)

[ ] Student
[ ] Government/ Civil Service
[ ] Researcher/ Academic
[ ] Social Worker/ Counsellor
[ ] Staff of AIDS Service agency
[ ] PLWHA/ PLWHA activist
[ ] Other (please explain) [ ]



Q. 2 Affiliation/Institution: (Type an X between the brackets
preceding your choice. Select only one choice)

[ ] AIDS service agency (International)
[ ] AIDS service agency (National)
[ ] University/ research institution
[ ] PLWHA organization
[ ] Bilateral agency (Eg. AusAID, Dfid, USAID)
[ ] Multi lateral agency (UN/ World Bank)
[ ] Hospital/ clinic (Health care worker)
[ ] Government employee
[ ] Human rights/ Development agency
[ ] Funding/ Donor agency
[ ] Other (Please specify) [ ]

Q. 3 (Type your answer between the brackets. Don't worry about extra
spaces at the end of your response).

1) Country [ ]
2) State [ ]
2) District (City) [ ]
3) PIN/ZIP/POST CODE [ ]

Q. 4 Gender (Type an X between the brackets of your choice. Select
only one choice)

[ ] Female
[ ] Male
[ ] Transgender

Q. 5 what age bracket do you belong to? (Type an X between the
brackets of your choice. Select only one choice.)

[ ] Less than 20
[ ] 20- 29
[ ] 30- 39
[ ] 40- 49
[ ] 50- 59
[ ] 60 +


Q. 6 How would you rate the overall value of AIDS INDIA e FORUM as a
regular source of AIDS related information? (Type an X between the
brackets of your choice. Select only one choice.)

[ ] Excellent
[ ] Good
[ ] Adequate
[ ] Poor


Q. 7 How many of the AIDS INDIA e forum messages do you read
weekly?. (Type an X between the brackets of your choice. Select
only one choice).

[ ] All or almost all (75-100%)
[ ] Many (50-75%)
[ ] Some (25-50%)
[ ] A few (10-25%)
[ ] Very little (less than 10%)


Q. 8 How frequently do you participate in discussion on AIDS INDIA e
FORUM? (Type an X between the brackets of your choice. Select only
one choice.)

[ ] Weekly
[ ] Fortnightly
[ ] Once a month
[ ] Once in three months
[ ] Once in six months
[ ] Never


Q. 9 What are your reasons for not participating in discussions on
the FORUM? (Type an X between the brackets of your choice you wish
to select. Choose All that is Applicable).

[ ] Too much information
[ ] Prohibitive cost and expenses of the internet
[ ] My agency prohibits posting messages on the e FORUMS
[ ] Do not have regular access to internet connection
[ ] No time/too busy
[ ] Am happy just to read the discussions
[ ] Not confident in English
[ ] Don't know how to submit messages
[ ] Reluctant to give opinions in public
[ ] Other, specify [ ]


Q. 10 what type of messages do you find most useful? (Type an X
between the brackets of your choice you wish to select. Choose all
that is Applicable).

[ ] Discussion of specific topics by other subscribers
[ ] Announcements of conferences, scholarships, web sites,
job vacancies, etc.
[ ] Journal articles, book references
[ ] Conference coverage
[ ] Project reports, lessons learned, best practices
[ ] Links to resources on the Internet
[ ] Cross postings from other lists
[ ] Requests for information (RFI)
[ ] Other, please specify [ ]


Q. 11 In which ways do you use the information from the AIDS INDIA e
FORUM in your work? (Type an X between the brackets preceding each
choice you wish to select. Choose All That Apply).

[ ] To increase current knowledge and awareness about HIV/AIDS
[ ] Program development/ Policy development
[ ] Clinical management
[ ] Teaching, research
[ ] Share information with my colleagues
[ ] Networking
[ ] Print messages and keep these in the resource centre
[ ] Other, specify [ ]


Q. 12 Can you give an example of how the AIDS INDIA e FORUM has been
helpful to you in your work?

(Type your answer between the brackets, using as much space as
necessary. Do not worry about extra spaces at the end of your
response.)

[ ]


Q. 13 In the last one month have you done any of the following after
having seen/read on the AIDS-INDIA e FORUM. (Type an X between the
brackets of your choice you wish to select. Choose all that is
Applicable).

[ ] Not Applicable
[ ] Visited a website of a project
[ ] Down loaded a publication or online resource
[ ] Requested for more information
[ ] Registered for an event (training, workshop, meeting)
[ ] Contacted other people/organization whom I have never contacted
before
[ ] Responded to an advocacy call for action
[ ] Other (Please specify)


Q. 14 How many other HIV/AIDS related discussion groups do you
subscribe to? (Type an X between the brackets of your choice. Select
only one choice).

[ ] Member of only this FORUM
[ ] 1-5 Forums
[ ] 6-10 Forums
[ ] More than 11 FORUMS

Q. 15. What is the most important benefit you had by being on this
FORUM?

(Type an X between the brackets of your choice you wish to select.
Choose all that is Applicable)

[ ] Got my current job
[ ] Attended a conference
[ ] Received a scholarship
[ ] Beneficial information about grants/funds
[ ] More aware of the HIV/AIDS policies
[ ] Extended my friendship/contact net work
[ ] Other benefits (please list)


Q. 16 where do you usually access your e-mails from? (Type an X
between the brackets preceding your choice. Select only one choice.)

[ ] From my office/ Work Place
[ ] From my home
[ ] Internet Café
[ ] From my home and office


Q. 17. How frequently do you check your e-mails? (Type an X between
the brackets of your choice. Select only one choice).

[ ] Daily
[ ] 2-3 times in a week
[ ] Once in a week
[ ] Few times in a month


Q. 18. How would you assess the quantity/Number of the messages
posted on the FORUM? (Type an X between the brackets preceding your
choice. Select only one choice.)

[ ] Too many messages are posted daily
[ ] 4 - 5 messages posted daily is fine with me
[ ] Post more the 5 messages in a day
[ ] Reduce the postings to 2-3 messages


Q. 19. What type of network access do you have? (Type an X between
the brackets of your choice. Select only one choice).

[ ] Direct dial up net work (Slow connection)
[ ] Direct broad band connection (ADSL, Cable, ISDN) (Faster
connection)
[ ] Part of a LAN. (My computer is linked to an office computer
network)
[ ] Don't know


Q. 20 please share your suggestions to improve the contents of AIDS-
INDIA e FORUM. (Type your answer between the brackets, using as much
space as necessary. Don't worry about extra spaces at the end of
your response.)

[ ]

Q. 21 Any other comments about the Forum?

[ ]

Thank you for your feedback.

Please e-mail the filled questionnaire to <joe_thomas123@...>

Incidence and risk factors for new-onset diabetes in HIV-infected
patients: the Data Collection on Adverse Events of Anti-HIV Drugs
(D:A:D) study.

De Wit S, Sabin CA, Weber R, Worm SW, Reiss P, Cazanave C, El-Sadr W,
Monforte A, Fontas E, Law MG, Friis-Møller N, Phillips A;Data
Collection on Adverse Events of Anti-HIV Drugs (D:A:D) study.
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Saint-Pierre, Brussels, Belgium.
stephane_dewit@...

Diabetes Care. 2008 Jun;31(6):1224-9. Epub 2008 Feb 11.

OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were to determine the incidence of
diabetes among HIV-infected patients in the Data Collection on
Adverse Events of Anti-HIV Drugs (D:A:D) cohort, to identify
demographic, HIV-related, and combination antiretroviral therapy
(cART)-related factors associated with the onset of diabetes, and to
identify possible mechanisms for any relationships found.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: D:A:D is a prospective observational
study of 33,389 HIV-infected patients; diabetes is a study end point.
Poisson regression models were used to assess the relation between
diabetes and exposure to cART after adjusting for known risk factors
for diabetes, CD4 count, lipids, and lipodystrophy.

RESULTS: Over 130,151 person-years of follow-up (PYFU), diabetes was
diagnosed in 744 patients (incidence rate of 5.72 per 1,000 PYFU [95%
CI 5.31-6.13]).

The incidence of diabetes increased with cumulative exposure to cART,
an association that remained significant after adjustment for
potential risk factors for diabetes. The strongest relationship with
diabetes was exposure to stavudine; exposures to zidovudine and
didanosine were also associated with an increased risk of diabetes.

Time-updated measurements of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and
triglycerides were all associated with diabetes. Adjusting for each
of these variables separately reduced the relationship between cART
and diabetes slightly. Although lipodystrophy was significantly
associated with diabetes, adjustment for this did not modify the
relationship between cART and diabetes.

CONCLUSION: Stavudine and zidovudine are significantly associated
with diabetes after adjustment for risk factors for diabetes and
lipids.

Adjustment for lipodystrophy did not modify the relationship,
suggesting that the two thymidine analogs probably directly
contribute to insulin resistance, potentially through mitochondrial
toxicity.

Dear FORUM,
                  
This mail is with regard to some ambiguities that are arising in my PhD for
which I need your able guidance. I hope my queries will be answered in an
explicit manner.
                
I am the student of Biochemistry (Life Science), doing PhD on HIV/ AIDS, my work
is totally on invitro study.

I would like to know even after taking consent from patients, is it mandatory to
take ethical clearance from NACO? On the grounds of ethical guidelines, I would
like to know further on this doubt.

If your answer is yes, I would like to know in detail what initiatives I should
take for the same.
 
Thank you
 
Warm Regards,

Kailash Karale,
Data Manager,
ART center, Civil Hospital,
Wardha
Email- kkthemiracle@..., kailash_karale@...
Ph. No. +919923103092

Dear FORUM,

In India around 1,75,000 People Living with HIV take ART in the Government ART
Centres. Due to ART, there are many positive aspects for improving the quality
of life of PLHA. In spite of those positive aspects, the PLHA on ART face
difficulties due to side effects.
 
I like to share my own experiences of taking ART for the past 4 years & 6 months
in Bowring Hospital, Bangalore. Before starting ART, my blood sugar level is in
the border line and after taking ART gradually there is an increase in my blood
sugar level.

After consulting, I found there are possibilities of ART drug induced diabetes.
Now I am in insulin medication and I have done lipid profile in private lab. My
cholesterol level in the blood is high (472 as per the report) and my doctor who
monitors my diabetes problem advised me to take fibrator tablets to control the
cholesterol level in the blood.

My doctor said that the high cholesterol level in blood can lead to cardiac
problems. When I approached the ART centre for insulin and tablets for
cholesterol, they refused to provide and told me that no ART centre will provide
insulin and cholesterol tablets free of cost for PLHA on ART.
 
There is no doctor specialized to treat diabetes available in the Hospital to
take care of the PLHA on ART and there is denial of treatment from the Medical
Officer in providing insulin and tablets for PLHA on ART. There are around 2% to
3% PLHA on ART having diabetes and many people are facing the lipid profile
problems.

As the cholesterol control tablets costs Rs.13 per day and insulin (one vile
human mixed start) costs Rs.160, many of our friends having similar problem
suffers and they are not in a position to take diabetes medications from private
sectors.
 
We bring this issue to the notice of NACO to understand the seriousness of the
issue and take steps accordingly for betterment of the lives of PLHA on ART.
 
Elango Ramachandar   
Bangalore
E-MAIL: <elangoraam@...>

Dear Forum Members,

After a continues effort of ANP+ for the past two years the dream has become
true. ANP+ always doing strong advocacy specially for access to treatment and
access to right for PLHIV in the state of Assam.

ANP+ has organized one big consultation in 2006 where health commissioner and
Project Director of Assam were present. After the consultation we have sent a
memorandum to the minister of health & Family Welfare of Assam. During this
consultation ANP+ member makes a strong recommendation to provide free travel
allowances to PLHIV across the state while they are traveling to concerned
medical college. Another recommendation coming out that free testing facility
for all other necessary testing besides HIV and CD4 shall be available for the
PLHIV. After this battle Honorable Health Minister of Assam announced the same
during the WAD’2007
 
The dream has become true for the people living with HIV/AIDS in Assam. It was
1st December ‘2008 when honorable chief minister of Assam and honorable health
minister of Assam have delivered a cheque for travel allowances to 5 PLHIV
during the occasion of World AIDS Day at Ravindra Bhawan, Guwahati.

The declaration has been made by the health minister of Assam for free travel to
the art centre for PLHIV have been made in the WAD'2007. But there was a problem
of official structure due to what the actual implementation has been late than
we expected. But from 1st December 2008 the travel for PLHIV to the art centre
from anywhere of the state has become free.
 
Behind the scene ANP+ has played a big role to get these facilities. ANP+ which
is been there in the state for the past more than 6 years during which period
we have always fought for the rights and benefits of PLHIV. We had a experience
when we got free travel support for PLHIV who are on ART during the year 2006
for one district of Assam.

Then we have advocated for the same to implement for the whole state with the
government of Assam. And finally after a long battle this dream has come true.
 
Also there was a huge need of the hour that while a PLHIV coming for the HIV
testing that person shall go for many more other testing which cost a lot and
the people from the poor background could not managed to do so. We thought that
why we should not go for a strong recommendation for free testing facilities for
PLHIV in the state while we already become the first state where CD4 testing has
been tested for free. We started the advocacy with the government and it has
also been become reality for us on this years WAD. Government of Assam has also
announced that the other lab testing will be free for PLHIV in the state who are
on ART from this year.
 
We hope this is really great news for all of us and may be replicated in many
other states where these kinds of facilities are needed at the most. PLHIV
networks from other states also can take this example to put pressure on their
respective state governments to provide these facilities as soon as possible.
 
Finally we just would like to say that we have shared our good time with all of
you and hope this will provides you a lot of encouragements to fight for the
rights and benefits of PLHIV in your places.

At last we are very thankful to the government of Assam and State AIDS control
society of Assam.
 
We need your continuous support for all the coming time.
 

Thanking you
Board member and Staff of ANP+ 
e-mail: <anpplus@...>

Freedom Foundation invites talented professionals to join our Project
Coordination Unit at Bangalore.

Last Date: 25th December 2008
e-mail:freedomg4.hr@...

Freedom Foundation has been the pioneers of Substance Abuse & HIV/AIDS
interventions in India, especially in the area of comprehensive care & support.
Today the Freedom Foundation operates from 46 physical sites at various
locations in the 4 states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu & Goa. Each
location has a series of interventions linking up the continuum of prevention to
care with a wide spectrum of services. The Foundation’s head office is located
at Bangalore, India.

The Freedom Foundation invites applications for the following positions for its
Bangalore Project office.

1. Monitoring & Evaluation officer:

The key responsibility of this position will be ensuring timely analysis,
reporting on program progress, monitoring tools, M&E plans and supporting sites
in implementing M&E systems. Coordinate with sites to collect, collate and
analyze program information and provide feed on M&E issues to Project
Coordination Unit (PCU)/HO.
The other responsibility of this position will be to ensure analysis and
reporting on program progress, providing feedback to the sites & PCU on M&E
information; and also extend his/her general support in responding to
information request about programs. This will entail coordinating with various
other departments at Head office.

Required Qualification & Skills:
The ideal candidate would be an MBBS or post-graduate/ higher in Social Work /
Statistics / equivalent
At least 2 – 3 years project management experience in project Monitoring and
Evaluation preferably in the field of HIV
Excellent written and oral communications skills in English is required for the
position
Proficient in the use of computers and the MS Office suite, SPSS.
Fluency in speaking at least 3 of the south Indian languages essential.
Willing to travel extensively
 
2. Admin & HR Officer:

The key responsibilities of this position will be to handle communication,
office correspondence, filing systems, maintaining daily petty cash & related
accounts and logistics management.
The ideal person would ensure the implementation of HR policy and compliance to
the rules and systems of the organization. He/She would coordinate, support &
assist PCU in selection, induction & other HR processes of the project. He/She
would also provide support in developing departmental/Site wise manpower plans &
develop strategies & plans to enhance motivation of staff. Would also carryout
any other activities as stipulated by the Project Manager.

Skills and Qualifications required:

1. At least Three years of experience in accounting and administrative work in
the social development sector.

2. Graduation or higher degree from a recognized university in commerce or
business administration. Candidates with Post Graduate degree in Commerce or MBA
will be given added preference.

3. Sound skills in computer usage - including use of Microsoft Office softwares
and Internet.

4. Good command over English, particularly in writing technical reports and
correspondence.

5. Fluency in spoken English a must and other south Indian languages an
advantage.

The above positions require a strong commitment to HIV/AIDS and sexual and
reproductive health and NGO activities in India, and a strong interest in
understanding the relevant issues.

Salary package will commensurate with qualifications and experience.
 
Closing date for receipt of applications: 25th December 2008
 
Qualified and experienced people living with HIV/AIDS are encouraged to apply.

Interested candidates meeting the above criteria should send their resume to the
below given address before closing date, along with a note in not more than 500
words stating why you think you are most suitable for the advertised position.
Also mention your current salary and expected salary in the covering letter. The
applications can also be sent by e-mail. Please indicate the title of the post
applied for on the envelope/subject line.
 
Freedom Foundation
Project Coordination Unit (PCU)
#10,2nd Cross, Devatha Layout
Next to Jain-Height Apartments
Hennur Cross, Bangalore-560043
e-mail:freedomg4.hr@...
www.thefreedomfoundation.org

We are not able to notify all applicants. Only short listed candidates will be
notified within 2 weeks of the closing date.

For Freedom Foundation

Mr.Narendra Babu
Project Manager
Bangalore
e-mail: <narendrababureddy@...>

Dear Forum,

I am a student of Master of Public Policy in the institute
Icfai School of Public Policy, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh.

I request you to send a soft copy to me of the original HIV/AIDS Bill which was
submitted by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO)to the ministries of
Government of India (Law Minister, Health Minister and
Prime Minister).

As a student fo public policy and as active member in this forum I can take part
in this debate actively.

I would like to inform you that during my master degree course I have developed
an internshiop report titled, "Civil Society Initiative for the Passage of
HIV/AIDS Bill in India" in Action Aid Organization,
Bhubaneswar regional office. During that period (May - July 2008) I
took HIV/AIDS Bill from LCHAU website as referance. Now I am looking
into if anything changed in the bill.

With regards

jagdish Gayan
Icfai School of Public Policy
Hyderabad, India
Mob: 09908229038
e-mail: jagdis_phil@...

HIV afflicted councillor becomes role model

Theni, Dec 13 (PTI) She was once shunned by the people in her village
in Kotangipatti Union in the district, as she was afflicted with HIV.
But the 29 year old Easwari, now a panchayat councillor, has become a
role model for the AIDS affected women.

When she filed the nomination papers for contesting in the general
ward, many in the village coerced her to withdraw her papers giving a
series of reasons like she would not be able to function effectively,
her life span was doubtful and people would not mingle with her.

But defying those views, Easwari got herself trained in basic law and
pressure-management at an NGO, which helped her to be firm in her
resolve to contest. Gradually, she succeeded clearing the doubts
among the minds of the people that there was no harm in people
mingling with her.

"This is a general ward. We are in a democracy. Nobody can prevent me
from contesting the elections," she had said during her poll campaign.

"I had problem even in my own house," Easwari, who got infected with
HIV in 1997 from her husband Mariappan(33), involved in textile
business," said.

"I was almost ostracised from my house and was given separate
utensils, my own kin dreaded to move closely with me," she added.

It took at least one year to convince them that the HIV will spread
only through blood transfusion or through sexual relationship,
Easwari said.

Easwari continued with the same strategy in the neighbourhood that
helped her to succeed at home. People were impressed by her knowledge
of government schemes and projects, to elect her as their councillor.
She was polled 235 votes in the polls. PTI

http://www.ptinews.com/pti/ptisite.nsf/all/5943BADFCBA4B7816525751E003
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