Launch of Toll Free Help Line Number 1800 180 1000 in Bihar by BNP+

[Guest guest]

Dear All

The Online Counseling facility and Resource Center under UNDP TAHA Project in

Bihar got a new impetus with the Launch of toll free Helpline 1800 180 1000. The

number has been installed with Bihar Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS

Society (BNP+) at Patna. This center will receive calls from all over Bihar and

its neighboring areas. It will cater to the need of callers regarding Legal

Counseling, Information on HIV/AIDS, Preventive measures etc.

After inaugurating the said Helpline number on 27th March at local Patna Hotel

Maharaja Inn the Honorable Speaker, Bihar Assembly, Shri Uday Narain Chaudhary

said it was need of hour to start a service like this. He also cited migration

and decline of social values/norms as the main reason for the spread of virus in

the state. He applauded the activities of TAHA Project in Bihar. About 25 Media

Persons from different print and electronic media were also present. A through

discussion on TAHA activities and the role of BNP+ took place on the occasion.

Unveiling the activities and strategies of UNDP in Bihar the State Project Team

praised the efforts of BNP+ and its board members, especially Mr. Rajnish Singh

who is President of BNP+.

Officials from Bihar State AIDS Control Society also shared their views on the

occasion and praised the efforts made by UNDP TAHA to launch this service

Mr. Rajnish informed that now BNP+ has 1600 members within their network. He

also informed about the livelihood related activities of BNP+ running in Bihar

with the technical & financial support of UNDP TAHA Project. Till date BNP+ has

benefited PLWHA and its dependents by arranging either jobs or PCO, agentship of

life insurance, etc, under the guidance of Mr. Rajnish Singh.

Looking forward for support to strengthen the mission.

Niraj Kumar

e-mail: <nirajk2in@...>