World AIDS Day observed on 1st December every year, gives us an opportunity to unite in the fight against Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), show solidarity for the people living with HIV, and remember those who have lost their lives from HIV-related illness.

World AIDS Day 2022 is being marked under the theme Equalize. The theme “Equalize”, is a call to take action to address inequalities that make the lives of many people living with HIV more challenging.

Our firm commitment of ending the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), as a public health threat should continue with persistent zeal and enthusiasm throughout the year. We must make every possible effort to empower communities by awareness and encouraging them to avail HIV and AIDS prevention, treatment and care services without any stigma or discrimination.

On this World AIDS Day, I call upon all government agencies, community organizations, civil society and stakeholders to make relentless efforts and join hands with A&N AIDS Control Society with the ultimate objective to end AIDS as public health threat.

Admiral D K Joshi

PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.)

Lieutenant Governor

Andaman & Nicobar Islands