Shanker Foundation Update - Nov 2015

Dear Friends,

It has been ages that we have not updated the Friends circle about what has been going on with Shanker Foundation Darjeeling Network of Positive People. Your solidarity and support at the Positive HAAT 2014 has enabled the organisation to continue supporting people living with HIV/AIDS in the Darjeeling Hills as there has been no other fund support to the Network. For those who have just been included in the email list, Shaker Foundation DJNP+ is the district level network of HIV Positive People linked with the state, national network and international networks. SFDjNP+ provides care and support services to positive people; protects and promotes rights of PLHA and reduces stigma through awareness campaigns. In addition to its regular activities SFDjNP+ worked towards enabling the members to access subsidised food under the Antodya Anna Yojna. This has been an amazing action where government scheme was accessed in the Darjeeling Hills while sensitising the department for client confidentiality and working out a methods of approval as members apply for the card. Photographs of some of the cards are attached, names blocked for confidentiality. Likewise, under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act schemes members are being given work acknowledging their immunity compromised status in the work environment. The continuing awareness and linkages with the department is enabling these positive action and we express our gratitude to the departments and officials who have gone out of their way to create and enabling environment for PLHAs in Darjeeling. Children infected and affected by HIV were given one time education support by Samudai Swastya Siksha Samity, a big thank you. Medical support has improved with District Nodal Anti Retroviral Treatment Centre in Darjeeling and link ART Centre in Kalimpong. Access to ART has improved but regular stock at times is a challenge and so is Opportunistic Infection Treatments. CD4 count testing is still a challenge. 

Acknowledging the increase of members of SF and need to decentralise, DK took proactive action and further strengthened the Kurseong team by registering the Kurseong Network as a sub-divisional network(registration certificate attached). He has campaigned and got the network an office in the Kurseong Municipality. At this juncture it is noteworthy to mention that DK was the one to crack the Antodaya Anna Scheme in Kurseong first which enabled Darjeeling and Kalimpong to follow suit. Likewise Poornima in Bijanbari has been doing great work in extending care and support to members far flung in the community, this means her, walking hours on end to reach them. Her linkage with the Block office has meant access to the MGNREGA work for members. Both DK and Poornima are open about their status thus have named them here. Countless are those who have their status undeclared and work tireless for meaningful involvement of people living with HIV/AIDS in the Darjeeling Hills. 

  

In continuing with making a public presence felt we will be observing World AIDS Day 1 December with the theme from 2011 to 2015 ' ‘GETTING TO ZERO – Zero New HIV Infections, Zero Discrimination and Zero AIDS Related Deaths’' in Darjeeling and Kurseong this year too. 

This year in Darjeeling, the fund raising event Positive HAAT returns on World AIDS Day;https://web.facebook.com/Positive-Haat-656780244437215/?fref=ts. 
Postive Haat is a fundraising event to support families living with HIV in Darjeeling. We accept donations of new and used items which will be resold at Chowrasta on December 1st. This year there will be fresh baked, fried and cooked food too. 9 bands will be busking at Chowrastha and Rink Mall for 2 days as part of the fund raising event. Positive HAAT 2014 enabled Shanker Foundation to continue their much needed work and this year too your support is needed to continue making a difference to lives of our community members. The Positive HAAT is taken forward by Shanker Foudnation and Friends of Shanker Foundation, a collective of individuals contributing their resources to protect and promote the rights of PLHA. 

We look forward to your solidarity, support and seeing you at Chowrastha or Kurseong on World AIDS Day Dec 1 2015. Kindly pass the word around actively. 

Yours sincerely

roshan

Of Renewed Urgency and Redoubling Our Effort

Dear Friends,

Its that time when we look forward to manifestos and how that's going to affect our lives. These thoughts becomes important for Shanker Foundation Darjeeling Network of Positive People as lives of positive people are extremely interlinked with policies at the centre. In the past year or so governmental funding to Shanker Foundation has dried up. This brings us the question, does Shanker Foundation need funds especially now that the Nodal ART Centre has opened up in the Darjeeling District Hospital(refer to previous update). This has been a long standing demand of SF DjNP+ and its fruition brings a sense of accomplishment as well as a the question of what next. This is where central policies and international actions affect the lives of people so far away from the corridors of power. The news story below 'How the India growth story has backfired on the HIV-positive' highlights national and international policy changes that has reduced support to positive people, this is true in the Darjeeling Hills. Seldom do we see the ART Centres well stocked with ART, this has meant that clients have to come every week for their ART rather than once a month. Thus even with the Nodal ART in Darjeeling a client from a far away Bijanbari has difficulty in accessing it especially when it is every week. Incidentally, there has been a rise in the number of clients in Bijanbari and its far flung villages. This rise in number was forseen, but sadly we are unprepared for it. The response should be focused awareness campaigns with care and support interventions but with reducing funding support this becomes extremely difficult. Likewise, there is an increase in clients in Kurseong Block too but outreach is limited. This information in rise in number in Bijanbari and Kurseong is partly due to the action of Shanker Foundation members who are working actively there. Since Postive Haat, the two members of SF at Bijanbari and Kurseong are being given a monthly honorarium of Rs. 2000 and Rs. 2500 respectively. Their honorarium is a minuscule drop compared to their interventions.   

There are a number of governmental benefits that are being provided to positive clients like the Antodaya Anna Yojna which provides additional subsidised supplementary food through the Pubic Distribution Service and a number of members and clients of SF DjNP+ are getting the food rations. But, a large number do not get it due to lack of information or societal pressure which forces them to hide their status rather than access the food. The department has become proactive in confidentiality issues for AAY yet in the initial days with the way the town is in terms of confidentiality, has meant that clients are more concerned of their status disclosure and let go of the food. 

Thus even with improved services, there is even more a need for the SFDjNP+ be around to provide care and support to positive people in the Hills. There is still need for SF DjNP+ provide a face for the movement to remove stigma and discrimination as well as fight for the rights of positive people. It is still important to continue our pledge at the Candlelight Memorial 18 May 2014, of Getting to Zero: Zero AIDS related Deaths, Zero new HIV infections and Zero Stigma and discrimination. The theme this year 'Let's keep the light on HIV' calls us to understand that there are policies and implementation process in place but it still needs improvement and also that these investments are being threatened. It calls on us to revitalise our solidarity and support to SFDjNP+ and enable resources to redirect their effort in protecting the rights of PLHA in the Darjeeling Hills. It also calls on us to relate policies to on the ground situations and influence them. It calls on us to recognise SFDjNP+ still needs funds. 

In the past two months we have redoubled our effort to focus our actions and make best use of the scarce resources. The May monthly meeting will focus on a year plan which is kind of how we are placed with resources post Positive Haat. There has been a sense of renewed urgency and redoubling our effort. 

We look forward to your continued support and solidarity.  

Yours sincerely

roshan

How the India growth story has backfired on the HIV-positive

https://in.news.yahoo.com/how-the-india-growth-story-has-backfired-on-the-hiv-positive-080653938.html

Inaugral of Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) Centre in Darjeeling

13th February, 2014 saw the inauguration of the Nodal ART Centre at the Darjeeling District Hospital by Smt. Asha Gurung, Sabhasad, Health, GTA in the presence of Joint Director, West Bengal State AIDS Prevention and Control Society, Shri Don Bosco Lepcha, Executive Director Health, GTA, Superintendent of District Hospital and many other dignitaries.

The Nodal ART has 7 staff including the Medical Director Dr. Norbu Sherpa. The physical infrastructure is in the ground floor of the District Hospital. The nodal centre will offer Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) to clients in the Darjeeling Hills and also offer counselling and opportunistic infection treatments, testing facilities and outreach programmes including adherence follow-ups.

In the inaugural programme, it was stated that this had been in the pipeline and had not gone forward due to the agitation in the Hills. It was also mentioned that the centre has been given such preference as such centres are opened only if there are 300 plus clients which Darjeeling Town does not have. The need for reach in the Hills was taken into consideration while opening this centre.

Shanker Foundation welcomed the opening of the Nodal ART Centre which has been one of the many demands over the years. It looks forward to the efficient functioning of the centre and hopes more Link ART Centres will be opened to reach the sub-divisions as well as other testing infrastructure like CD4 are developed in the region.   

World AIDS Day - Celebration Photographs from Darjeeling

World AIDS Day 2013 - Programme for Darjeeling Hills

Dear Friends,

World AIDS Day, observed on December 1 each year, is dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection. It is common to hold memorials to honor persons who have died from HIV/AIDS on this day as well as undertake public awareness programmes. Shanker Foundation Darjeeling Network of Positive People in association with various partners has been observing the day publicly in Darjeeling since 2006.

This year the theme of ‘GETTING TO ZERO – Zero New HIV Infections, Zero Discrimination and Zero AIDS Related Deaths’ signifies a push towards greater access to treatment to all; a call for governments to act now. The global campaign highlights how our fundamental right to health is intrinsically linked to other basic rights of food, shelter, freedom, clean water and safety. Crucial too is access to affordable life saving quality medicines free from the crippling effects of excessive profit making. GETTING to ZERO is the theme till the 2015.

The global theme is especially pertinent to the Darjeeling Hills. People Living With HIV/AIDS are struggling to access healthcare and vital ART and testing is still not available to all those who need it without an arduous, expensive 8 hour round trip to the nearest centre.

 

The Events:

 

Darjeeling- Getting to Zero Concert - 1 December 2013
We are holding an open air music concert at Chowrasta, with 10 up-and-coming local bands, ensuring a broad based appeal. We will be releasing Shanker Foundation’s documentary on “Stigma and Discrimination” and screening it throughout the day, as part of a day-long awareness event. Our outreach workers will also have information stalls and will be interacting with people throughout the day, in order to spread the message “Getting to Zero” to the 2,000 students and 4,000 members of the public who are expected to attend. Music is the easiest way to reach the youth in any part of the world and Darjeeling is no less with music being very deeply imbibed in the local culture. We know from our past experience that it is an excellent way to connect with the youth in Darjeeling, who will be an essential part of leading the change.

 

 Positive Haat 
 

As a side-event to the main programmes, Friends of Shanker Foundation are holding a fundraising sale for three days 30^th November to 2^nd December. Due to the strikes in Darjeeling this year, our local fundraising was severely hampered. This event is an effort by Friends locally to raise funds from our own community as well, an important step in the fight towards reducing Stigma and Discrimination. The garage sale, titled “Positive Haat” will also help spread awareness on HIV/AIDS in Darjeeling, and also of the work of Shanker Foundation and the needs of its members.

We look forward your generous contribution to the Positive Haat as well as attending and buying from the Positive Haat. Please do pass on the word about the Positive Haat for donations as well as buying stuff.

 

 

Kurseong – Information Kiosk

 The Kurseong sub-divisional group will have an HIV/AIDS Information Kiosk which will be placed in a prominent public place and manned by members and volunteers offering information and counseling throughout the day. Various means of public awareness will also be adopted.

 

Bijanbari – Information Kiosk

 The Bijanbari group will have an HIV/AIDS Information Kiosk which will be placed in a prominent public place and manned by members and volunteers offering information and counseling throughout the day.

The POSITIVE HAAT for World AIDS Day

Candlelight Memorial coming up soon

Dear Friends,

The time is here again for us to come together for the candlelight memorial on 19th May and remember all our friends we have lost to HIV/AIDS and re-dedicate ourselves to the cause.

The theme of the 30th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is In solidarity. The theme emphasizes the need of people living with and affected by HIV to join hands and work together in the response to HIV. Solidarity in communities is essential to reduce stigma and promote involvement of people living with HIV in order to ensure a more effective HIV response. Only together as communities we can advocate for universal access to quality health services and HIV treatment, to raise awareness around HIV and to promote respect for human rights of people living with HIV.

The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, coordinated by the Global Network of People living with HIV is one of the world’s oldest and largest grassroots mobilization campaigns for HIV awareness in the world. Started in 1983, the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial takes place every third Sunday in May and is led by a coalition of some 1,200 community organizations in 115 countries.

The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is much more than just a memorial. The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial serves as a community mobilization campaign to raise social consciousness about HIV and AIDS. With 33 million people living with HIV today, the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial serves as an important intervention for global solidarity, breaking down barriers of stigma and discrimination, and giving hope to new generations.

We will update you on the programme in Darjeeling and call on you to take the memorial in your own spaces too. 

For further details please check http://www.candlelightmemorial.org

Do let us know your initiatives and ideas to commemorate this year's memorial.

 

In Solidarity,

roshan

World AIDS Day 2012 - A Report

“Working  together  for  an  AIDS free  generation”

On the occasion of World AIDS Day on 1^st Dec 2012, Shanker Foundation DjNP+ organized an awareness programme at Chowrasta Darjeeling as an opportunity for people in the hills to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for people living with HIV and to commemorate people who have died.

Around 2000 people attended the event. Stalls were set up by various NGO’s with banners and posters about their respective organisations. The participating NGO’s were Kripa Foundation, Child In Need Institute (CINI), Miitjyu and Shanker Foundation DjNP+. IEC materials were displayed and distributed to the visitors of the stalls. A mobile ICTC van was placed in the premises by the District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit, Darjeeling for anyone who was willing to undergo the HIV tests. Red ribbons were distributed by volunteers of Shanker Foundation to people visiting Chowrasta to spread the awareness on HIV/AIDS.

The program began with a welcome address by Mr. Dhurba Chettri, District Program Manager, District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit, Darjeeling. The Chief guests for the event were Mrs. Asha Gurung, Sabhasad Health Department, Gorkha Territorial Administration, Mr Amar Rai, Chairman Darjeeling Municipality, Mrs Urmila Rumba, Sabhasad, Gorkha Territorial Administration, Dr. R. Ghosh DMO, District Hospital Darjeeling, Dr. S. Bhowmick CMO, District Hospital Darjeeling, Mr. S. Das Health Secretary, Mr. K. Agarwal Superintendent of Police, Darjeeling, Ms. Purnima Sherpa, Deputy Superintendent of Police and Mrs. Anuja Ghaley, President of Darjeeling NGO Network.

The guests were felicitated with khadas. The lamp lighting ceremony was conducted by Mrs. Asha Gurung followed by the release of the Shanker Foundation ‘Positive Calendar’ for the year 2013.

Mrs Asha Gurung in her speech stressed on fighting for the Rights of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Darjeeling and assured of medical aid and setting up of a hospice in Darjeeling in the future.

Mr Dhurba Chettri elaborately spoke on HIV/AIDS: The facts, modes of transmission and ways of prevention. He also briefly outlined the network of organisations at the national, state and district level working exclusively on HIV/AIDS.

Mr Shankermani Rai, President of Shanker Foundation DjNP+ brought to light the reality of living with HIV/AIDS in Darjeeling. Contrary to our perception, people with HIV/AIDS are still discriminated in every aspect of day to day living. He related the struggles faced by the organisation in working efficiently and the red tapism involved which delayed funds for the organisation thus keeping on hold many essential activities for the HIV/AIDS infected and affected people.

Many other guests also spoke on the current trends in HIV/AIDS prevalence and Prevention. Mrs Anuja Ghaley in her speech explained the connection of HIV/AIDS with other social ills in our society like Human trafficking and Drug Abuse and how a consolidated plan of action is required to tackle the menace of HIV.

‘Aarambh’, a short skit on the social stigma and discrimination faced by People Living with HIV/AIDS and awareness about the routes of transmission and modes of Prevention was performed by members of Baishnavi Production. The play was directed by Mr. Aditya Raya.

This was followed by rock music performances by local bands like Grey Matter, Helium Heart, Primitive Future, Ground Zero, N/A, Method 29, Baraka, Funeral Fire. Powerpoint presentation and messages on HIV/AIDS awareness was displayed during the performances.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr Hari Chettri, Secretary Shanker Foundation.

BIJANBARI WORLD AIDS DAY PROGRAM

On behalf of Shnaker Foundation DjNP+, Mrs Purnima Tamang, Out Reach Worker of the Foundation, organised a Red Ribbon Campaign in the Bijanbari block covering the Bijanbari Rural Hospital, Fire Brigade area, Block Office and the Bazar area. Around 500 copies of IEC materials were distributed on the occasion.

As reported by Nisha Chettri
Counselor

World AIDS Day coming up

WAD Celebration in Darjeeling - Poster

World AIDS Day 2012, observed worldwide on 1 December since 1998, is just round the bend. World AIDS Day unites people from around the world to raise awareness of the global AIDS response and join, in solidarity, the millions of people living with and affected by HIV.
 
“Getting to Zero” is the theme of World AIDS Day, echoing the UNAIDS vision of achieving “zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination, zero AIDS-related deaths.” This theme will be used until 2015.
 
Here are some popular messages suggested by some of our friends and supporters. Lets try and keep them in our mind as we go through our lives this coming year.
 

• A nation’s greatest weakness is measured by how it treats its weakest members. – Mahatma Gandhi. How do you treat People living with HIV/AIDS?
• STOP AIDS – Don’t share body piercing objects.
• STOP AIDS– Practice safe sex
• STOP AIDS – Use sterilized sharps, needles and HIV tested blood.
• STOP AIDS – There are no high risk groups, only high risk behavior.
• GETTING TO ZERO – HIV is a manageable infection.
• GETTING TO ZERO – Get tested, know your HIV status.
• GETTING TO ZERO – Each one, teach one about HIV/AIDS.
• HIV does not discriminate. We are all vulnerable to HIV.
• REDUCE STIGMA – Provide care and support to people living with HIV/AIDS.
• REDUCE STIGMA – LOVE and Respect people living with HIV/AIDS.
• REDUCE STIGMA - Embrace people living with HIV/AIDS.
• REMOVE MISCONCEPTIONS – HIV/AIDS is not spread by sharing food or water.
• REMOVE MISCONCEPTIONS – Body contact does NOT spread HIV/AIDS. It is okay to hug, kiss, touch or hold hands with People living with HIV/AIDS .

  

Workshop on Awareness in HIV/AIDS, STI/RTI and Universal Precautions Organized for Health Workers of Rural hospital, Bijanbari

A one day training session on HIV/AIDS, STI/RTI, and Universal Work Precaution was organized by Shanker Foundation for the health workers of the Rural Hospital of Bijanbari at GDNS in Darjeeling on the 8th of September.

The session began with a welcome speech by Nisha Chettri followed by a brief introduction by all the participants. There were about 70 health workers along with the BMOH who attended the training session.

A presentation on HIV/AIDS, its Routes of Transmission, Prevention, Myths and Misconceptions were made by Hari Chettri.

In the second session Hari Chettri continued his presentation on Stages of HIV, Impact of HIV, CD4 cell count test, OI (Opportunistic Infection), Treatment and Benefits of ART, etc. He also spoke on Social Marketing of Condom. Shankermani Rai then gave a demonstration on how to use a male condom.

Case study on social stigma and discrimination was presented by Hari Chettri.

In the third session Nisha Chettri gave a presentation on STI/RTI, the Transmission, Signs and Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention, etc.

In the fourth session a presentation on Universal Precautions for the health workers was given by Sona Rana Subba. She explained in details regarding the medicines like PEP (POST EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS) to be used within 72 hours in case of exposure. She also spoke on other issues related to HIV like NEVARAPINE that   is to be given to the infected women when she is about to conceive and two drops of the same medicine to be given to the new born baby.

After the sessions, the BMOH of rural hospital Bijanbari asked some basic questions to the participants from the presentation of the day and also told them other important things that were missing in the presentation. NACO’s guideline under NACP III was also discussed by him which is to be followed till 2012. He presented data on the number of people suffering from HIV/AIDS and the tests conducted till date within Bijanbari block as well as India.

The program ended with a vote of thanks by Sona Rana Subba, followed by lunch for the participants.

Workshop on HIV/AIDS With Faith Based Organizations

20th May, 2012 
Good Will Centre, Darjeeling

A workshop was organized byShanker Foundation DjNP+ at the Good Will Centre, Darjeeling with the support of friends. Sona Rana Subba, one of the friends of Shanker Foundation started the workshop by welcoming everyone and by introducing theparticipants from different Faith Based Organization. She also briefly described the participants about the background of the foundation as well as International Candlelight Memorial which was to be celebrated on the same evening at Chowrasta.

Hari Chettri, SecretaryShanker Foundation  started off with his presentation on the present scenario, care and support issues in the Darjeeling Hills like inadequate medical services and variouscase studies on stigma & discrimination faced by the members of ShankerFoundation. He also gave  a brief description about the services provided by the foundation to its members as below:
1. Psycho-SocialSupport
2. Medical Support
3. Nutritional Support
4. Educational support
5. Awareness on HIVprevention and stigma discrimination
6. Advocacy(Specially with govt. agencies for improved medical services etc)

He also discussed on how Faith Based Organisations could provide support to the Shanker Foundation.

Mr. Jiwan Giri, the representative from Manav Uthan Sewa Samity, placed his interest on organizing an awarenessprogram among the members of their organization.

A representative from BhramaKumaris said that they too are interested in organizing an awareness programin at their place and  also shared his feeling by telling that people in today's world are aware of the things happening around them, but due to lack of spiritual and moral knowledge their actions are  lagging behind. So knowledge should be given to them on scientific as well as spiritual basis.

Members of Sai Samity were interested in organizing an awareness program among their members. Some myth about some Ayurvedic treatment was also discussed in the workshop. Hari Chettri also spoke to the participants about the Positive Calendar which Shanker Foundation releases every year and told them that they can also provide  support to the Foundation by buying these calendars.

The workshop turned out to be successful with the active participation of all present and was concluded formally with vote of thanks by Sona and also asking them to head to Chowrasta to observed the International Candlelight Memorial.

regards
Shanker Foundation Team

International Candlelight Memorial 2012

20th May, 2012 - Chowrasta,  Darjeeling
The 2012 International Candle lightmemorial service was observed by Shanker Foundation, Darjeeling Network ofPositive People with the support of Friends of Shanker Foundation and the citizens of Darjeeling.

Sona Rana Subba, a friend of Shanker Foundation DjNP+ welcomed thepeople present at Chowrasta for the Candlelight Memorial while Shankermani Rai, Secretary of Shanker Foundation DjNP+ gave a brief description of why theInternational Candlelight Memorial is observed and briefly introduced the vision, mission and existing activities of the Foundation.

Sona Rana and Nisha Chettri, a counselor of Shankerfoundation read about the Candlelight Memorial both in English and Nepali. Here is the excerpt from that reading - “The International AIDS CandlelightMemorial being planned for Darjeeling is part of a larger, global campaign,coordinated by the Global Network of People living with HIV, one of the world’soldest and largest grassroots mobilization campaigns for HIV/AIDS awareness inthe world. Started in 1983, the Candlelight Memorial takes place every thirdSunday in May and is led by a coalition of some 1,200 community organizationsin 115 countries hosting local memorials to honor the lives lost and raisesocial consciousness about HIV. The Candlelight Memorial is also much more thanjust a memorial. It provides opportunities for leadership development, policyadvocacy, partnerships, and improvement of community mobilization skills. With33 million people living with HIV today, the Candlelight Memorial continues toserve as an important intervention for global solidarity, breaking downbarriers, and giving hope to new generations”.

Differentreligious leaders from the Japanese temple, local Hindu temples, the churches and members of the Brahma Kumaris andManav UthanSewa Samity conducted a solidarity and prayer service during the program. Bhajans and hymns were also chanted by the members of Mahakal Mandir Committee and theyouths of Sacred Heart Church.The candlelight ceremony was started after the lighting of lamps by religiousleaders and followed by all the participants who lit the candles and placed itin a shape of the AIDS symbol.

A local Gospel band, Soul Winner, performed for the people  to create awareness among the youth on the importance of observing the International Candlelight Memorial Day and also for the acceptance of PLHAs in our communities. The participants werepresented from different CBOs, NGOs, FBOs and Govt. organizations.  The lighting ceremony was started at 4: PM and and ended at 8pm with vote of thanks from the Foundation.

Kurseong
The Candle light memorial service at Kurseongwas observed by the staff of Shanker Foundation, Mr. D.K. Subba, supported bythe staff of the local Hospital at the Sub-Divisional Hospital premises, Kurseong.

The program was started by Mr.D.K  subba by welcoming participants in the program. He also spoke on the present scenario and background of the Shanker Foundation. He read about the Candle light memorial service and requested the participants to pay their homage to the victims of HIV/AIDS by lighting candles.

Members of the local Sai Samity conducted a solidarity and prayer service and also chanted bhajans in the  memory of those who have died of AIDS and also requested all the participants to pray for their soul to rest in peace. Participants consisted of members from local CBOs and NGOs of Kurseong.

regards
Shanker Foundation Team

Dear Friends,
On behalf of the members and friends of Shanker Foundation, I request you to please join in a global solidarity event that is held each year toremember victims of HIV/AIDS and to raise awareness. This event is held on the third Sunday of May each year and this year it falls on the 20th of May.

We invite you to commemorate this day with us as an act of solidarity with the larger International AIDSCandlelight Memorial event. We urge you to hold prayers and encourage communitydialogue focused on the care and societal support needs of People Living withHIV/AIDS (PLWHA).
We also invite you to join community-based organizations, faith-based organizations and others at the Candlelight Memorial to be held in Chowrasta, Darjeeling and in Kurseong on the 20th of May, 2012 at 4 pm.

The global theme for this year is “Promoting Health and Dignity Together”. The memorial is not just for all the people who have died but also for those who are living with HIV/AIDS. We would like you to reach out to those living with HIV/AIDS and help them to lead a healthy life along with dignity.We have a culture of supporting each other and the time is now to embracepeople living with HIV/AIDS in the Darjeeling Hills and break down the walls of stigma and discrimination.

We thank you for your support and solidarity for the memorial and look forward to your continued support inthe fight against HIV/AIDS and stigma it needlessly carries.

Yours sincerely,
Hari

The Positive Calendar 2012

The Positive Calendar is out now. To order you copy, please write to us at friendsofshanker@gmail.com They are priced at Rs. 100 each and has been designed by our dear friend Dipang.

Observance of World AIDS Day 2011 - A report

Date: 1st December 2011

Shanker Foundation DjNP+, District AIDS Prevention Control Unit (DAPCU), and Darjeeling NGO network, together with fourteen other members of Darjeeling NGO network came together to observe the World AIDS Day at Rink Mall.
The introductory speech was given by Mrs. Sona Rana Subba by inviting the guests on the stage namely, Mr. Suman Das Pradhan, Secretary of Red Cross Darjeeling, Mr. Dhurba Chettri, District Programme Manager of DAPCU, Mrs. Anuja Ghaley, President of NGO network, Mr. Shanker Mani Rai of Shanker Foundation. Following that Mrs. Anuja Ghaley, President of Darjeeling NGO Network welcomed the dignitaries and members present. She gave the brief details about the Darjeeling NGO network which is the collective of fourteen member organizations working in diverse fields in the Darjeeling Hills which is formed for building sustainable Darjeeling Hills through networking, relationship building and sharing of expertise.

Mr. Shanker Mani Rai, Secretary of Shanker foundation DjNP+ informed the gathering about the transfer and prevention of HIV/AIDS. He gave the brief background of the Shanker foundation. He also highlighted the total figure of positive members who has been registered in the Shanker foundation. He said “I am grateful to share the news about the hospice land (Rehabilitation Center) which has been released from the M.P fund hosted by Mr. Jaswanth Singh and the construction programme of which has been started in Singamari. The main reason for the formation of Rehabilitation centre is to provide the accommodation and treatment facilities for the HIV infected victims who have been abandoned by their families and the societies. Discrimination is another vital factor that the AIDS victims are facing in their day to day life, due to which HIV positive people are not being able to disclose their status and cannot access treatment.”

The Positive Calendar 2012 was launched by the chief guests and the dignitaries. The calendar was sponsored by NGOs, business houses, individuals to support the Darjeeling network of positive people. All the proceeds of the sale of the calendars will go towards the activities of Shanker foundation Darjeeling Network of Positive People.

Mr. Dhurba Chettri, District Programme Manager of District AIDS Prevention Control Unit highlighted the theme of this year that is “getting to zero “. He stated,” the new HIV infection, HIV related discrimination, HIV related death should be brought to zero. Planning needs to be done and service facility should be strengthened in order to bring those things into Zero”.According to his information there are seven ICTC (Integrated Counseling Testing Centre) in Darjeeling, two in Darjeeling district hospital, one each in Kursoeng, Kalimpong, Mirik, Bijanbari. The places which are lacking such facilities will be soon provided with mobile ICTC within 15th of December. He also declared that they had sent the volunteers in different areas of Darjeeling Hill for Red Ribbon Campaign and the fund raised from that campaign will be given to the Shanker foundation for the care and support service of HIV infected members.

Mr. Suman Das Pradhan, Secretary of Red Cross stated that Darjeeling holds the second place in West Bengal in HIV/AIDS infection. He said, “Urban people lack awareness compared to rural areas. Their hesitation in blood donation and testing are seen whereas the people from rural area come to him and requests him for blood testing programme in their areas. Awareness of HIV/AIDS should reach to the adolescents and practical and theoretical knowledge is necessary for them to be aware. Awareness campaign should be done in various Higher Secondary schools and colleges.”He also explained the five mandatory blood tests needed after which one can donate the blood. Counseling to the HIV infected should be done and their confidentiality should be maintained. Lastly he said “until and unless clients do not come forward it is impossible to bring it into zero.”

After the speech of Chief guests and dignitaries, pamphlets of 2012 were released by the chief guest. The inaugural session ended with the play performed by Vaishnavi production. In the play four characters contract HIV through the four routes of transmission and their issues and problems faced for their survival in society. A Stall for the HIV Bill Campaign was set up by the staff members of the foundation in order to make people participate on strengthening the Campaign Bill for the rights of HIV positive people. Another stall was also set up by the foundation where the positive calendar of 2012 was sold out fund raising as well as pamphlets on HIV/AIDS was distributed among the people. Kripa Foundation had also set up a stall to make people aware of Drug abuse and HIV.

The programme ended with music played by different bands like Laid Back, Baraka, Head Motif and Blues Buddies to create awareness among the youths.

At Kurseong:World AIDS Day service at Kurseong was followed by the Staff of Shanker Foundation, Mr.D.K. Subba supported by the staff members of Red Cross and Manas Bangla had set up the stall in front of the Sub-Divisional Hospital premises, the opening of which was done by the S.D.O of Kurseong from where Red Ribbon and the Pamplets of 2012 was distributed. Blood donation camp was also set up in the Kurseong Government College. The mobile awareness campaign through a van spread the message to a larger audience.

At Mirik:Two members from Shanker Foundation namely, Tulsi Rai and Pratap Rai went to Seyok Tea Estate, Tea Promoter of India, Mirik on their invitation, for observance of World AIDS Day 2011. They informed the people about the theme of this year “Getting to Zero” and “Red Ribbon Campaign”. They also shared information to the people on HIV/AIDS, stigma and discrimination faced by the people living with HIV/AIDS and IDUs. Important dignitaries of Mirik such as Managers, President & Secretary of the Community, School Teachers, Staffs of Health Department, and ANM of T.B. Hospital attended the programme.

At Siliguri: Shanker Foundation DjNP+ also observed World AIDS Day in Siliguri. WBVHA had organized programme in Siliguri in which foundation had set up a stall with WBVHA from where information on HIV/AIDS was passed out to the public. Shanker Foundation DjNP+ was also awarded with Certificate of Appreciation by the WBVHA on this day.

Reported by - Hari Chhetri

World AIDS Day on 1st December 2012

Shanker Foundation in collaboration with the Darjeeling NGO Network and Darjeeling District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit is organising the 2012 World AIDS Day on 1st of December at the Rink Mall Complex in Darjeeling.

The theme for this year's observance is "Getting to Zero" Zero New HIV Infections. Zero Discrimination, and Zero AIDS Related Deaths. The World AIDS Campaign focus on "Zero AIDS Related Deaths" signifies a push towards greater access to treatment for all. Perhaps more importantly, it also calls upon governments to keep the commitments they have made to fight the deadly disease.


The program is targeted at creating awareness on HIV/AIDS and will feature talks by Positive Speakers; the launch of the Positive Calendar 2012; HIV/AIDS bill campaign; street theatre and cultural programs onHIV/AIDS and performances by local bands. Kiosks with informationon HIV/AIDS with seasoned counselors will be available to the public throughout the day.

Get involved and show your solidarity! Come and join us in the World AIDS Day celebration and spread the awareness.

Fund Raising Gala Dinner on 10th December

For most people, difficult economic times put their lifestyles at risk.
For people struggling with HIV/AIDS, these times put their lives at risk.
Low –income group people living with HIV AIDS right here in Darjeeling must now make unthinkable choices: Food or Medicine? Housing or Healthcare?
You Can Help.
Come attend the Shanker Foundation Charity Gala Dinner this December.

We are organizing a Fund-Raising Gala Dinner at Glenarys on the 10th of December with a Ghazal performance by Ajnish. Dinner and a welcome drink is included with the ticket and to make it worthwhile, an automatic entry to a Raffle Draw that will be announced on the night with lots of exciting prizes.
Tickets are priced at Rs. 1100/- for a couple and Rs. 600/- for single.

If you cannot attend yourself please forward this message to people you know in and around the Darjeeling Hills - to your family members and friends. Anyone who feels it worthwhile to save a life and to contribute to a good cause.

You can contact Roshan @ 99320 24812 or Kundan @ 9002308409 for booking tickets or tables. You can also write to friendsofshanker@gmail.com for more details about the event and possible sponsorship. If you know corporate contacts in and around Darjeeling who might chip in a bit as part of their CSR programmes, then please refer them to us. We need as much support as possible to make this event a success and raise some real funds for the Foundation.

Looking forward to seeing you on the 10th of December.

Warm regards
Samir

DIWALI update

Dear Friends,

Time flies.

A prayer for all the departed souls and their families of the awful tragedy at Bijanbari where a bridge collapsed killing 32 people and more than 100 injured on the 22nd of October.
http://www.telegraphindia.com/1111023/jsp/frontpage/story_14657953.jsp
http://www.telegraphindia.com/1111024/jsp/frontpage/story_14660395.jsp
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/Hills-to-miss-festivities-this-Diwali/articleshow/10486274.cms

In all this the Shanker Foundation still has to continue with three new patients at the hospital and the support from Darjeeling Unlimited making the difference to the lives of these three members. After a long time the Dj Unlimited support enabled a member meeting to happen on the 23rd. This important meeting had not happened due to lack of resources. The meeting is crucial to update members of developments but also is extremely important as a space of solidarity and support.

There has been a buzz of activities on the World AIDS day front too. Event planning is on with a number of local bands volunteering their music for awareness. The exact details are being sorted out but this one definitely comes with more thought than the previous ones with the work beginning when it should. Calendar is a slight worry but discussions are going ahead and we still hope to make it before the school close for winter. Friends please remember 1st December and take part in this years crucial international theme of Getting to Zero which is so pertinent to the Darjeeling Hills.

World AIDS Day
World AIDS Day, observed December 1 each year, is dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection. It is common to hold memorials to honor persons who have died from HIV/AIDS on this day. Shanker Foundation in association with various partners has been observing the day publicly in Darjeeling since 2006.
This year the theme of ‘GETTING TO ZERO – Zero New HIV Infections, Zero Discrimination and Zero AIDS Related Deaths’ signifies a push towards greater access to treatment to all; a call for governments to act now. The global campaign highlights how our fundamental right to health is intrinsically linked to other basic rights of food, shelter, freedom, clean water and safety. Crucial too is access to affordable life saving quality medicines free from the crippling effects of excessive profit making. The global theme is equally pertinent to the Darjeeling Hills.

Fund Raising GHAZAL NIGHT on 3rd December
Kundan is taking the Gazal night forward. Ajnish has volunteered his music for the night of fund raising which is on for 3rd December. Ajoy has been super generous with Glenarys as the venue when all the others were quoting sky high prices. We hope to see you there.

Wishing you light in your lives this Diwali and fond remembrances from the beautiful Darjeeling Hill wherever you are.

Happy Dasherra and some updates

Dear Friends,

Puja days are here and this year it is going to be super special with all of us in the Hills looking at this new lease of life after the earthquake. Our prayers for all those whose lives ended with the earthquake. The earthquake shook us and also gave us a new meaning to our lives. An understanding as to how precious and fragile life is and what a gift it is.

A gift equally precious has come by through Darjeeling Unlimited USA with a financial support of Rs. 72004:00. The Darjeeling Unlimited are Non Resident Darjeeling Hills people who live in USA and want to do something meaningful in Darjeeling. In the past they have raised funds for individuals in need in the Darjeeling Hills. This year through the many winding turns of friends and relationships that are typical of our hills Darjeeling Unlimited go to hear of Shanker Foundation and decided to become 'Friends'. One of their expressions of this friendship was the Rs. 72000:00 which will go a long way towards strengthening the Network in Kurseong; OI Treatments; Nutritional Support, Network meetings and office expenses. The support really means a lot with resources having dried up lately but increasing number of patients. A big THANK YOU Darjeeling Unlimited USA.

The myths and misconceptions continue and quacks have emerged in Sikkim and Dharan who are promising cure for HIV. We have lost a member and one got serious with the quacks' treatment. It seems to aggravate the condition and patients' health deteriorates rapidly. We do not know of the many hidden PLHAs who might have fallen to the quack who advertised in a local daily. The struggle continues in many fronts.

Discussions on the calender has gone ahead with sponsorship letters on the roll. Rs. 8000/- being the minimum for logos on the calendar. Discussions on a fund raising night is ahead with Ajnish committing his voice for the event. We look forward to wonderful gazal evening with Ajnish around mid November, post Diwali and some serious fund raising. Watch this space for more news on the venue and date of the event. Thank you Ajnish and team for coming on board.

1st December World AIDS Day is round the bend and discussions for an awareness event at Big Bazzar or Chowrasta has started with a number of individuals/bands coming forward in support. Please do think of something you could do at your place too.

Dasain ani Tihar ko Subhakamna with family and friends. I sign off - shaken and stirred, but still full of hope.

peace
roshan

The Wall - September 2011

Dear Friends,

The day started for me with a call from Ruben with an update that he was getting more tiles and water from his side and also from Suman. Such a good way to start the day, a note of solidarity and generosity. Such acts continued through the day and the next with people landing up at the Wall, helping out, bring food and water, juice and ice-cream. Walking up to the wall was like revisiting an old friend and also being part of a reality makeover show. Dipang and Sweta had the whole show orchestrated with the road divided into sections for different colours and also showing us the way.

Clearly all of us knew what was needed but did not know how difficult it was to get going. Chipping and cleaning the wall, breaking and sorting the tiles, mixing the cement, drawing the outlines and then getting the tiles on the wall. No wonder we get mistris to tile our houses. Work was slow and hard and the beautiful sunny day was not so beautiful anymore, the heat just sapping our energy away. Had it not been for the energy of the kids the adults am sure would have let go. Their enthusiasm and zest got us going, not to forget the tea, biscuits, egg bun, cream roll and pepsi ice. Wish i could document all the typical Darj comments of passers by but one suffices, 'satis banaey cha' The work did not finish on on the 3rd so all of us trooped on the 4th too. Had allu paratha for lunch and worked till two jeeps had to be brought in to light up the wall. That's about when all of us decided that its a work in progress and it had been a job well done. We leave the wall for now and revisit it sometime later.

As of now the WALL stands for all that it says and the DIGNITY of People Living with HIV/AIDS(PLHA) in the Darjeeling Hills. It showed the world that PLHA and the rest can come together hand in hand and whip out a work of art which challenges us the MOUNTAIN PEOPLE to live in HARMONY and in OWNERSHIP of our HOME. This can be done only if all of us can PARTICIPATE in the process of EMPOWERMENT and bring about a process of HEALING and FREEDOM. This is possible when we have ONE LOVE and DIGNITY. (words in upper case are from the wall).

The two days had curious passerby's, to ones who came up and said 'good job',to some who said can i help and be a part of the process?. People read the leaflets we had kept and also dropped their mite in the donation box. i hope the multiplier effect happens and the mass of change agents increase to become a revolution of acceptance and solidarity. For this i believe that the wall must continue as a physical reminder of the state we want to reach as a society. At this juncture i also do not hesitate to add that other walls did not get the revolution happening and reminds of the Late Gil Scott Heron saying 'The Revolution will not be televised' .

I would like to sign off with a note of gratitude to all who were at the wall in mind body and soul and remind that the "road is long with a many a winding turn, ...he aint heavy he's my brother' - the hollies.

peace

roshan