The Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh said that the response to HIV-AIDS requires a multi-sectoral approach and there should be greater integration of resources in dealing with this problem.

Speaking at a national convention of Parliamentarians, Zilla Parishad Chairpersons and Mayors, Dr Singh said, the larger health system should also contribute to providing a wider platform for greater reach of the HIV-AIDS programme.

The Prime minister said, there are over 24 lakh people estimated to be living in India with HIV-AIDS. He said, therefore, there should be no let up in efforts to provide services to those HIV infected people and prevent others from getting the infection. He said, all health care providers including ASHA workers should be invovled in this gigantic task.

The Prime Minister said, linkages should be made between the HIV and AIDS programme and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee programme to facilitate employment of HIV positive persons.

Dr Singh also said, all should ensure that there is no stigma and discrimination towards HIV infected persons. He said, no child should be denied admission in schools and colleges because he or she is afflicted with HIV.

Speaking on the occasion, UPA chairperson Ms Sonia Gandhi said, all should redouble their efforts to fully contain HIV-AIDS. She urged all should come forward and provide necessary support so that government’s efforts are met with success.