Two districts in Manipur have reached a significant healthcare milestone by securing Surakshit status under a prominent national initiative aimed at combating human immunodeficiency virus. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh officially felicitated the districts of Imphal West and Pherzawl for this major accomplishment, which falls under the Mobilization for AIDS Suraksha initiative spearheaded by the National AIDS Control Organisation.
The Sammaan Samaaroh and Targets
To celebrate the achievement, a dedicated felicitation event titled Sammaan Samaaroh was hosted at the Chief Minister's Office. According to the Manipur State AIDS Control Society, the districts earned this recognition after successfully meeting the stringent 95-95-95 HIV targets established by the national framework. This marks the very first time that districts within the state have attained such specific acknowledgement.
Understanding the 95-95-95 Framework
Detailing the structure behind the milestone, Health and Family Welfare Commissioner and MACS president Sumant Singh explained that the targets require 95 per cent of estimated individuals living with the virus to know their status, 95 per cent of those diagnosed to receive antiretroviral therapy, and 95 per cent of those undergoing treatment to achieve viral suppression. He noted that viral suppression signifies effective control of the virus among those who reach that threshold, describing the dual district achievement as a first for the state society.
Grassroots Recognition and Official Remarks
During the programme, the Chief Minister recognized the vital contributions made by healthcare professionals, administrative personnel, and local community partners in boosting prevention and awareness efforts at the grassroots level. He further urged the Health Department to scale up its operations so that the remaining districts can also attain Surakshit status in the future. Sharing his thoughts on X, Khemchand Singh stated that the achievement reflects dedicated efforts in strengthening prevention and called on stakeholders to aim for Surakshit Plus for a healthier region.
Presentations and District Delegations
The event also featured the formal honoring of representatives from the Imphal West and Pherzawl district administrations, alongside their respective Chief Medical Offices and specialized district strategy teams. Additionally, a detailed presentation was showcased to highlight the specific steps and strategies implemented by both districts to fulfill the criteria required for the recognition.
