HIV/AIDS Universal Access to Treatment: Memorandum to the President of India

[Guest guest]

HIV/AIDS Universal Access to Treatment Memorandum

New Delhi, India 2007

Respectively submitted to: The Honorable President of India Dr.

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam On the day 24th, March 2007

In recognition of the positive initiatives that you have created to

support and assist people living with HIV/AIDS in India, we call on

you to consider the following issues that require your leadership:

1. Whereas it is unknown how many people in India are currently HIV

positive and in need of anti-retroviral (ARV) treatment, we call for

expanded free and accessible HIV testing services that will reach all

of the affected communities, including rural.

2. Whereas HIV/AIDS is a preventable disease, we call for revitalized

prevention campaigns that will reach communities at risk and will help

stop the transmission of this deadly virus.

3. Whereas women and children are at the most risk for HIV/AIDS, we

call for an increase in access to ARV treatment centers - especially

in the rural areas -- as well as women-specific and pediatric

treatment guidelines to be developed by the government.

4. Whereas first line ARV treatments are failing and clients are

increasing facing resistance nationally, we call for the government to

approve the provision and availability of life-saving second- line

therapies.

5. Whereas ARV treatment regimens must be clearly understood in order

to be effective and to avoid resistance, we call for treatment

literacy programs that will reach the people, both in rural and urban

communities.

6. Whereas National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) is responsible

for the provision of appropriate HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, care

and support services, we call on NACO for accountability and

responsibility in providing HIV/AIDS treatment to all in need in

India by 2011.

For all of critical issues, we ask for your leadership and support.

Respectfully submitted by:

AHF/IndiaCares

ActionAID

Positive Women Network (PWN+)

Delhi Network of Positive People (DNP+)

India Network of Positive People (INP+)

DISHA

Human Rights Law Network (HRLN)

Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM)

Angikar Bangladesh Health Rights and Care Group

Bharti Derma Care and Research Center

UNESCO, and other civil society groups and communities

SOURCE Aids Healthcare Foundation