Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said different ministries should make HIV sensitive policies and programmes to provide employment and succour to HIV-AIDS infected persons. Addressing a National Convention of Zila Parishad Chairpersons and Mayors on HIV & AIDS in New Delhi, Dr Singh said linkages be built between Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee programme and HIV/AIDS programmes to facilitate employment of HIV positive persons.

The Prime Minister said the nutritional needs of HIV positive people, specially women and children should be tackled by linking them with ICDS and other developmental schemes. Dr Singh said there is a need to ensure that there is no stigma and discrimination towards HIV infected and affected persons. He said no child should be denied admission in schools and colleges because he or she is afflicted with HIV or because his or her parents are afflicted with this disease.

UPA chairperson Ms Gandhi said those belonging to the most disadvantaged sections of the soceity suffer the most . Ms Gandhi highlighted the need for creating awareness about the disease. She urged that, all should come forward and provide necessary support so that the government’s efforts are met with success.