Para-military forces to get condom-vending machines to stop the spread of AIDS
Para-military forces to get condom-vending machines to stop the spread of AIDS
This is one machine the government hopes personnel of the para-military forces will love to use.
Perturbed by the rising number of HIV-positive cases in the para-military forces, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is planning to purchase condom-vending machines. The machines will be installed at various centres of para-military forces, including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), National Security Guard (NSG), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and Special Security Battalion (SSB).
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First phase
The first phase of the plan will focus on installing the machines at border posts and far-flung areas in the country where most of these forces are deployed. "We are trying to raise consciousness among jawans to stop the spread of HIV infection. Initially, the vending machines will be installed at distant locations. Later all battalion and sector headquarters will get the facility," said an MHA official.
The proposal is to install around 1,000 such vending machines while the numbers will be increased with time and their effectiveness. The ITBP is also procuring condoms from various companies to start the project. Officials in the ministry and the ITBP have been asked to monitor the success of the project by informing battalions.
No sex knowhow
Initial studies revealed jawans and low-ranking officers of para-military forces don't have much knowledge about sex-related health issues and diseases. Separation from family and postings in far-flung areas put a lot of stress on jawans and they become susceptible to unprotected sex, leading to several ailments. "Several counselling centres have been set up by the forces to raise awareness among jawans. We have to make them aware of the dangers," said the officer.u00a0u00a0
Of late, there has been an alarming rise in the number of HIV-positive cases and other sex-related diseases in the para-military forces. Due to lack of sex knowledge and counselors, the cases often go unreported, leading to further complications. The ITBP has been asked to take charge of plans and programmes related to the health of the jawans.
| Not so positive |
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Last year at least 100 HIV-positive cases were reported from various para-military forces. Though the overall figureu00a0 of those affected exceeds 1,000, steps are being taken to create awareness and stop the spread of panic in the forces. |
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