On August 12, 2024, the Red Ribbon Club of Sikkim Government College Namchi took part in
the Intensified IEC Campaign 2024, organized by the Sikkim AIDS Control Society (SSACS)
under the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO). The campaign aims to raise awareness
about HIV/AIDS and address the social stigma attached to it. It began with a walkathon from
Bhanu Park to the Namchi Municipal Council. Upon reaching NMC, the Sikkim Assembled
Theater (SAT) delivered an engaging performance that educated the audience about the
causes, treatments, and stigma related to HIV.
Dr. Madan Mani Dhakal, the chief guest, provided valuable insights into the state’s HIV/AIDS
situation. The event featured active participation from students across various educational
institutions in elocution and poster-making competitions. Eleven students from SGC Namchi
competed in the poster-making contest, while two participated in the elocution. Srijana Rizal
from the Zoology Department and Prabin Chettri from the Botany Department won first and third
places, respectively, in elocution. Lakpha Doma Sherpa from the Education Department
secured third place in the poster-making competition.
Mr. Kishor Baniya, Coordinator of the Red Ribbon Club, shared thoughtful reflections on the
increasing rates of suicide and drug abuse in the state. The event concluded with a prize
distribution and a vote of thanks by Dr. Meesho Cheetri, Medical Officer at Namchi District
Hospital. This campaign had a significant impact, not only in raising awareness but also
inspiring participants to actively address HIV/AIDS and its associated stigma.
