Title: Need to formulate a comprehensive strategy to combat AIDS.
(NAGAR KURNOOL): Sir, AIDS is spreading across the country with frightening rapidity in recent years. Despite Rs. 1,000 crore being pumped every year into AIDS prevention, more than for any other health problem in India, the virus runs riot. Over four million Indians are HIV positive, double the figure in 1994. 35 per cent AIDS cases in India occur among youth in the 15-24 age group but only a few projects educate them about the risks. With no accountability a host of dubious NGOs have mushroomed in the country to cash in on the flush of funds. NACOâs guidelines are being openly flouted by the NGOs. AIDS awareness is at very low ebb. I request the Government to form a clear and comprehensive strategy to combat AIDS, exercise control over NGOs with regular monitoring of fund distribution and utilisation, and penal action may be taken against those NGOs who commit fraud.
I request the Union Government to set up Counselling Centres and Treatment Centres urgently in the Government hospitals to cope with demand.