Tata Main Hospital along with Network of Positive People, partner NGOs today observed the 34thInternational Candlelight Memorial. The event was organised at Sonari Community Centre, Kagalnagar, Jamshedpur. Mrs Ruchi Narendran was the Chief Guest on the occasion.

Dr. H. K. Gardin, Head Nodal Centre for AIDS shared the significance of the occasion and the various interventions by Tata Steel in the community to cope with the epidemic. Ms. Ruth Kerketta gave an overview of HIV/AIDS activities of CSR Division.

Mrs. Ruchi Narendran, empathized with People Living with HIV/AIDS and spoke on the role of the community towards reducing stigma & discrimination against them.

Mrs. Narendran marked the solemn occasion by lighting the first candle. The Choir Group from College of Nursing TMH accompanied the lighting of the candles with the song ‘Jyot Se Jyot Jagate Chalo’. Approximately 250 participants observed a minute’s silence remembering the deceased with prayers for those who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS. Mrs. Ruchi Narendran flagged off the Rally which went on the road in front of the playground of Sonari Commuity Centre, Kagalnagar towards market area.

Representatives of People Living with HIV/AIDS shared their experiences of being HIV+ and the succor obtained from Nodal Centre for AIDS. Message on HIV/AIDS was conveyed through a Nukkad Natak performed by students of College of Nursing, TMH.

Representatives from Tata Main Hospital, College of Nursing TMH, the CSR Division and their project teams, Jamshedpur Network of Positive People and People living with HIV/AIDS and their families associated with Sneh Kendra, Rotary Club of Jamshedpur Midtown, NGOs, Peer Educators,Health workers and community based organizations were present on the occasion.