India

India launches UNITE FOR CHILDREN UNITE AGAINST AIDS

© UNICEF India/2005/Negi

Children tie a 'Suraksha Bandhan' around the wrist of Indian President Abdul Kalam, at the launch event.

NEW DELHI, India, 25 October 2005 – Indian President Abdul Kalam launched UNITE FOR CHILDREN  UNITE AGAINST AIDS in New Delhi today. President Kalam read a poem and talked with children about issues related to HIV/AIDS, including discrimination.

Children tied a 'Suraksha Bandhan' – a cloth bracelet that signifies wellness – around the President’s wrist.

The President also signed a scroll supporting the Red Ribbon Express campaign, in which four trains will travel across the country promoting HIV/AIDS awareness next year.

© UNICEF India/2005/Negi

Children affected by HIV/AIDS met with Ms. Sonia Gandhi and shared messages they made for her. Ms. Gandhi pledged her support for the Campaign.

In a gesture of support for the Campaign, Ms. Sonia Gandhi, one of India's leading politicians, also met with the children at her residence. The children tied 'Suraksha Bandhans' around Ms. Gandhi's wrist, enlisting her commitment to working to protect and support children affected by, or living with HIV/AIDS. Ms. Gandhi also signed a pledge of support.

Go to the Campaign website for more information on the global launch of UNITE FOR CHILDREN  UNITE AGAINST AIDS and other worldwide events.