Research Agenda under India’s AIDS Control Program

[Guest guest]

Dear Forum,

In the first two years of the NACP-III (2007-12), NACO has developed

systems to connect the link of research with the prevention, care,

support and treatment programs.

A `Technical Resource Group' on `R & D' was constituted with primary aims to guide

program to develop an appropriate research agenda for translating knowledge into

the program and policy.

India is multiethnic country; any research/ intervention in one limited setting

may not work in another setting. In this context, a `Network of Indian

Institutions for HIV/AIDS Research' was formed with

responsibility to undertake multi-centric research activities in

inter-disciplines.

In addition, NACO Ethics Committee for Research was constituted with

responsibility to ensures that the process of research is conducted `ethically',

responsibly, protection of privacy and not exploitative of participants.

NACO has provided an interactive platform for structured scientific

consultations with the main objective of identifying highest priority

research questions based on program gaps. Research protocols are

developed with " learning by doing " approach under the guidance

of mentors.

NACO has followed multi-channel dissemination strategy (1)

publication in indexed Journals (2) interactive sessions and targeted

meetings with program managers/policy makers (2) newsletters and print

media.

Research Fellowship scheme was initiated to encourage young researchers (upto 35

years) to pursue research in the field of HIV/AIDS while pursuing their

MPhil/MD/PhD under experienced academicians and researchers.

This may serve as an incentive for them to take up quality

and need based research in HIV/AIDS. A grant is given to 20 fellows, up to Rs.

1.5 lakh through the respective institution/department.

During 2009, a mid-term evaluation of NACP-III was undertaken to assess

effectiveness of various intervention implemented during the first 2.5 years of

this 5 year phase. Evidence from this evaluation has helped in midcourse

corrections in the program.

NACO has been very pro-active in promoting research and using evidence

in policy and program management.

To disseminate findings of various studies undertaken/supported under NACP-III,

NACO is planning to organize a dissemination workshop in the month of January,

2011.

Details will be posted on the forum for information and active participation.

Dr. Ruchi Sogarwal

Programme Officer

Evaluation & Operational Research

National AIDS Control Organization

Ministry of Health & Family Welfare

Government of India, NEW DELHI

E-mail: ruchi.dr@...

Tel: 011-43509991; Cell: 9560906661