The National Red Run 2023 event saw the participants competing in three categories, 10 km and 2 km with enthusiasm and vigour. National Red Run 2023 was organised by National AIDS Control Organisation, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, in collaboration with Goa State AIDS Control Society.
Before the start of the run, Ms. Nidhi Kesarwani, IAS, Director, National AIDS Control Organisation Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Govt. of India flagged off the National Red Run at Sports Authority of Goa (SAG) Ground Bambolim. Also present were Ms. V. Hekali Zhimomi, IAS, Additional Secretary & Director General, National AIDS Control Organisation Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Govt. of India, Dr. Geeta Kakodkar, Director, Health Services, Dr. Gokuldas Sawant, Project Director, Goa State AIDS Control Society and others.
Approximately 157 participants from different States and Union Territories and Goan’s participants in large numbers raised HIV/AIDS awareness in the State.
Addressing the prize distribution and award distribution ceremony Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said, this event is the first of its kind, organised by Goa State AIDS Control Society. He said a healthy body houses a healthy mind and both these are necessary to create a healthy society as well as a progressive Nation.
Speaking further Chief Minister underscored the important role played by social organisations and NACO in spreading awareness and creating a sense of inclusiveness as well as friendliness towards the AIDS infected people. There was a time when the world used to look down upon AIDS patients and used to isolate and humiliate them, Chief Minister observed.
I call upon the civil society to eradicate all forms of isolation and bias against AIDS affected persons. This is possible only through consistent awareness through various programs and initiatives, he said and urged the general public to use the 1097 helpline to report any misbehaviour or bias happening if any, against Aids affected persons.
Health Minister Shri Vishwajeet Rane said NACO should come out with guidelines making available safety measures through dispensers at hotels, restaurants and in coastal areas. There is nothing shy to be spoken about said the Minister.
Citing the examples of different types of pressure Shri Rane said, peer pressure is becoming dangerous to young generation. Parents should assist the children in controlling such pressure and keep the younger generation away from such dangerous aspects, the Minister added.
Health Minister urged Red Ribbon Club to go the extra mile in creating awareness in colleges and other institutions. This subject is not restricted only to colleges but also in schools and at higher levels, the Minister added.
Health Minister appealled to create healthy atmosphere and live life happily.
Ms. Nidhi Kesarwani, IAS, Director, National AIDS Control Organisation Ministry of Health & Family Welfare also spoke on the occasion.
Prizes, trophies and certificates were presented to the winners of all three categories at the hands of Chief Minister and Health Minister.
GIS Atlas brought out by Goa State AIDS Control Society was also launched at the hands of Chief Minister.
Earlier, Dr. Gokuldas Sawant, Project Director, Goa State AIDS Control Society welcomed the guests. Joint Director Shri Umakant Sawant proposed a vote of thanks.
