Click to play videoSrinagar: The medical fraternity in Kashmir has come up with a novel way to fight AIDS – they have sought the help of local Imams to spread awareness.
AIDS patients are on the rise in Jammu and Kashmir. At least 37 people have died of AIDS in the state in the last decade, while over 900 have tested positive.
But the public health authorities in Kashmir have now found an unexpected ally in their fight against the disease. They have roped in local Imams, like Fayaz Ahmed Wani, to spread awareness.
“People listen to us with utmost attention during Friday prayers. We'll tell them how AIDS spreads,” said Wani.
The idea of involving religious leaders in combating AIDS is not new. It has been tried with significant success in countries like Ghana, Senegal and Uganda.
In Kashmir, the medical fraternity has trained around 500 clerics to spread the message of safe sexual practices.
“Even layman, who cannot read, doesn’t have access to any form of media attends Friday prayers. They listen to Imam religiously,” said SPM Department Head Dr Muneer Masoodi.
To take on the fatal disease, religion proves to be an effective tool.
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