National Red Run 2.0: A Step Towards HIV Awareness
The National Red Run 2.0 is set to take place on January 18, 2025, at Miramar Beach in Panaji, Goa. Organized by the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) in collaboration with the Goa State AIDS Control Society (GSACS), this event aims to raise awareness about HIV prevention through sports and community engagement. The run will feature a 10-kilometer race and a 2-kilometer solidarity run, inviting participants from various backgrounds to join in the cause.
Event Details and Schedule
The National Red Run 2.0 will kick off at 6:30 AM from Miramar Circle in Panaji. Participants will cover a scenic route that takes them from Miramar Circle to Dona Pala and back. Dr. Lalitha Umraskar, Project Director of GSACS, announced the event during a press conference held on January 16, 2025. She emphasized the importance of using sports as a platform to promote awareness about HIV prevention.
The event will feature competitors from different states, with the top two winners from state-level races qualifying for the national run. The race will include male, female, and transgender categories, ensuring inclusivity. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers, with amounts of Rs. 50,000, Rs. 35,000, and Rs. 25,000 for first, second, and third places, respectively.
Solidarity Run: Uniting Communities
In addition to the main race, a 2-kilometer Solidarity Run will be organized. This run is open to a diverse group of participants, including policymakers, government representatives, civil society members, and the general public. The aim is to show support for those living with HIV and to foster a sense of community. All participants will receive certificates of completion and medals, celebrating their involvement in this important cause.
The Solidarity Run is designed to engage individuals from various backgrounds, including youth, persons with disabilities, and members of the defense and police forces. This inclusive approach highlights the importance of community support in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Notable Attendees and Support
The event is expected to attract significant attention, with several prominent figures in attendance. Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, will serve as the Chief Guest. Shri Vishwajit Rane, Minister for Health and Urban Development, will be the Guest of Honour. Other notable attendees include Shri Shripad Y. Naik, Union Minister of State for New & Renewable Energy, and Shri Sadanand Tanawade, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha.
Their presence underscores the commitment of both state and central governments to combat HIV/AIDS. The event will also see participation from senior officials from NACO and GSACS, further emphasizing the collaborative effort to raise awareness and promote prevention strategies.
The Role of Red Ribbon Clubs
The National Red Run 2.0 is part of a broader initiative that includes around 13,000 Red Ribbon Clubs (RRC) established across the country. These clubs aim to promote community outreach on HIV/AIDS prevention and provide support for young people seeking information about HIV, STIs, and drug abuse.
The Red Run serves as a platform to encourage youth involvement in HIV/AIDS prevention efforts. It aims to dispel myths surrounding the disease and create safe spaces for open discussions. By engaging young people, the initiative hopes to foster a more informed and supportive community, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for those affected by HIV/AIDS.
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