In a significant move to support children impacted by HIV, the Punjab Government is set to implement a monthly financial assistance program, providing Rs 1,500 to the children of HIV-infected parents. The initiative, revealed by Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh during the first meeting of the State Council on AIDS at Prayas Bhawan on Wednesday, aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by these vulnerable families.
 
Dr Balbir also announced additional measures to aid those affected by HIV. The State Council proposed offering free transportation services for HIV-infected patients to their treatment facility, the Anti-Retroviral Therapy Centre, once a month. Moreover, a dedicated task force will be established to design programs tailored to improve the employability and quality of life for individuals living with HIV, helping them lead dignified lives.
 
To ensure that people living with HIV have easy access to social welfare schemes, the meeting approved the use of documents verified by Medical Officers at ART Centres. The decision is aimed at eliminating bureaucratic hurdles and preventing discrimination when accessing welfare benefits.
 
Dr Balbir also directed the Industry and Labour Departments to enforce the HIV/AIDS Policy in industrial establishments, mandating the appointment of a complaint officer in industries with 100 or more employees to address issues of stigma and discrimination. He encouraged industries to include HIV prevention and welfare initiatives in their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities.
 
The Health Minister further instructed the organization of HIV testing camps across the State and the launch of a mass Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign to raise awareness about the disease. He stressed the importance of educating the public on prevention, care, and support for people living with HIV, emphasizing that the virus does not spread through casual contact, air, or water, but through specific behaviors like unprotected sex and needle sharing.
 
“People living with HIV have the right to live a normal life and it's crucial for everyone to understand that HIV doesn't spread through touching, air or water. Transmission occurs through unprotected sex, sharing needles, syringes or other injecting equipment,” he said.
 
Dr Balbir highlighted that individuals with HIV, who adhere to their medication and achieve viral suppression, can live healthy lives without transmitting the virus to others. He urged all Panchayats to pass resolutions in Gram Sabha meetings to eliminate stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV.
 
Additionally, he called for the installation of hoardings and wall paintings in Panchayat Bhawans to reinforce this message.