Rally to Raise Awareness on HIV/AIDS in Rishikesh

As the world commemorated World AIDS Day and honoured the memory of the millions lost to the disease since it was first discovered over 40 years ago, Pujya Swamiji and Pujya Sadhviji joined students of GGIC Laxman Jhula and the Parmarth Niketan family for a rally and counseling session organized by Parmarth Niketan, Global Interfaith WASH Alliance, Harpic World Toilet College, and the Jagran Initiative to raise public awareness about AIDS and to allay the fears and misconceptions held by the public about the disease – fears and misconceptions that are leading to increases in inequalities in communities throughout India. Speaking to the assemblage, Pujya Swamiji shared: “It is necessary to end inequalities so that no one is left behind. People who are living on the margins will have to make joint efforts to connect themselves with the mainstream. This will remove all the walls, cracks and misconceptions among themselves.” Pujya Sadhviji, meanwhile, shared that awareness about AIDS is very important for everyone’s health. While providing information to the students about safe sexual relations, she said that life is very important, hence they must use condoms while having sex. She added that AIDS is a virus, hence we should not discriminate against AIDS victims. “We must live and embody the spirit of unity and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam!” she declared.