0
0
While comprising only a small portion of India’s population, the northeastern states confront significant health adversities, including elevated rates of ailments like cancer, HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other vector-borne diseases, prompting deep concerns within the region.
Recent studies highlight the disproportionate HIV prevalence in northeastern states. Mizoram records a 2.70% adult HIV prevalence, followed by Nagaland at 1.36% and Manipur at 1.05%, significantly higher than southern states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka with substantially lower rates.
Meghalaya, with HIV infection rates surpassing the national average, witnesses a proactive response from all 60 state legislators. Inaugurating the Meghalaya Legislators’ Forum on HIV/AIDS, Speaker Thomas A Sangma outlined a comprehensive strategy addressing healthcare access, social support, employment opportunities, education campaigns, nutritional aid, and legal assistance to combat the disease.
This initiative aims to foster inclusivity for persons living with HIV/AIDS, emphasizing social, economic, and healthcare aspects while aiming to reduce societal stigma.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma affirmed the government’s commitment to halt the disease’s spread by mobilizing all available resources in the state.
Opposition leader Ronnie V Lyngdoh emphasized the role of legislators in dispelling societal stigmas, urging lawmakers to support the cause both socially and financially.
However, challenges persist in the region. Despite alcohol prohibition in Manipur and Mizoram, drug-related fatalities persist, claiming numerous lives annually. With the proximity to Myanmar and the illegal trafficking of narcotics across unfenced borders, drug abuse remains a critical issue, affecting the lives of thousands, primarily the youth.
Rising unemployment due to limited industrial growth, except in Assam, further exacerbates the drug addiction problem. An official from Mizoram’s Excise and Narcotics Department reported a disturbing rise in drug-related deaths, indicating a looming crisis if unchecked.
The northeastern states continue to grapple with the smuggling of narcotics, contraband, and other illegal substances from Myanmar, necessitating stringent enforcement and preventive measures to address the issue comprehensively.
The region’s challenges, spanning health crises and socio-economic issues, demand concerted efforts from policymakers, law enforcement, and community leaders to combat the multifaceted problems affecting the region’s well-being.
