Sun Dec 01 07:04:18 UTC 2024: ## Media Urged to Combat HIV/AIDS Stigma in Uttar Pradesh

**Lucknow, [Date of Publication]:** A workshop highlighting the crucial role of media in combating HIV/AIDS stigma and misinformation was held in Lucknow on Friday. Organized by the Uttar Pradesh State AIDS Control Society, the event emphasized the need to disseminate accurate information to the public.

Joint Director (Prevention), Ramesh Srivastava, stressed the importance of dispelling societal misconceptions surrounding HIV/AIDS. He noted that an estimated 1.97 lakh people in Uttar Pradesh are currently living with HIV, with approximately 1.20 lakh receiving treatment at ART centers across the state.

Dr. Geeta Agarwal, Joint Director-BSD, underscored the ambitious goal of eliminating AIDS by 2030, with 2025-26 identified as a critical period. Key priorities to achieve this include an 80% reduction in new infections, decreased AIDS-related mortality rates, and the complete elimination of mother-to-child transmission. The workshop aimed to empower media professionals to actively participate in achieving these objectives.

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