Introduction

SBS Foundation has been implementing a Composite Targeted Intervention (TI) Project in Kaithal district since 1 June 2024. The project focuses on prevention, care, support, and treatment services for vulnerable and high-risk populations, including Female Sex Workers (FSW), Men who have Sex with Men (MSM), and Injecting Drug Users (IDUs).

The project is being implemented with a target coverage of 650 FSWs, 630 MSMs, and 550 IDUs. The initiative aims to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS through awareness generation, counselling, early diagnosis, safe practices, and improved access to healthcare services.

The HIV/AIDS programme seeks not only to prevent new HIV infections but also to improve the quality of life of affected individuals and reduce stigma and discrimination within society.

Project Objectives

The major objectives of the programme are:

1. To prevent new HIV infections among high-risk groups.
2. To provide HIV testing and counselling services.
3. To ensure linkage and access to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART).
4. To reduce HIV-related stigma and discrimination.
5. To promote awareness and education regarding HIV/AIDS.
6. To improve the quality of life of affected individuals and families.

The Foundation conducted regular awareness campaigns through community outreach programmes, group meetings, educational sessions, and interpersonal communication activities. Information related to HIV prevention, safe sexual practices, condom use, and STI management was disseminated among target groups and community members.

Confidential counselling services were provided to beneficiaries to encourage safer practices and regular HIV testing. Individuals were referred to Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTC) for early diagnosis and timely treatment.

The programme actively promoted safe sexual behaviour through the distribution and social marketing of condoms among FSW and MSM populations. Demonstrations and counselling sessions were conducted to improve awareness regarding correct and consistent condom use.

To reduce the risk of HIV transmission among Injecting Drug Users (IDUs), clean needles and syringes were distributed regularly. Safe injection practices were promoted through counselling and awareness sessions.

Linkage to ART and OST Services

The project facilitated linkage of HIV-positive individuals to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Centres and Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) Centres. Continuous follow-up support was provided to reduce loss to follow-up (LFU) cases.

Community Outreach and Participation

Community leaders, peer educators, NGOs, and youth groups actively participated in programme activities. Peer-led interventions helped improve outreach, trust-building, and service accessibility among vulnerable populations.

Key Achievements

• Increased awareness regarding HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment among target populations.
• Improved access to HIV testing and counselling services.
• Reduction in Loss to Follow-Up (LFU) cases at ART and OST Centres.
• Enhanced promotion of safe sexual practices and condom use.
• Improved awareness regarding safe injection practices among IDUs.
• Strengthened community participation and peer educator involvement.
• Better support for prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT).

Community Participation

Community participation remained a strong pillar of the project. The Foundation collaborated with local NGOs, youth groups, health departments, and community leaders to ensure effective implementation of programme activities. Support groups and peer networks were strengthened to provide emotional and social support to People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV).