INP+ Abraham's speech at Bill Gates Press Conference.

[Guest guest]

Mr. Bill Gates and distinguished Colleagues and friends

I am from Indian network for People living with HIV. I represent the

four million people living with HIV in India, As a President of a

network of people living with HIV and living with the virus for the

past 10 years, I fully understand why I am here today. Because People

Living with HIV's role is important to control the epidemic.

With out us there is no Prevention,

Without us there is no visibility,

Without us there is no education,

Without us there is no behavior change .

INP+ was formed in 1997 as the response of people living with HIV to

this epidemic. We have 9 state level networks including one Positive

Women's Network. Our membership is from 15 states in India.

Today I am here to remind you that we are losing friends to HIV than

before, because prevention efforts are not supported with care for

people living with HIV. But I am here to tell you that we are

living. HIV does not mean that is end of life. There is more to life

even after HIV infection. Believe me now my life has become very

precious to me than ever.

HIV infection is a manageable infection if we have access to drugs. I

know that India has a leading role in supplying generic drugs at a

low cost to other countries.

Ironically in India out of the 4 million people only a less number

are on antiretroviral drugs. I have strategies that can help control

the epidemic in the country. The key in our strategy is treatment for

people living with HIV. When treatment is available people enjoy good

health. Then there will be hope in prevention programs.

When there is hope people will volunteer to get tested.

Then prevention will work.

I appeal to every one here to make HIV/AIDS as our national priority

before HIV hits every home in our country!!!

Thank You