HIV and Health
Pahal believes that ending the HIV epidemic requires more than biomedical intervention. It calls for dismantling systemic stigma, creating safe and inclusive spaces, and addressing the deep-rooted inequalities faced by marginalized communities. HIV is now a manageable, chronic condition—not a death sentence—and the solution lies in empowering communities, not burdening them with risk labels.
Pahal Foundation is currently implementing two Targeted Intervention (TI) projects aimed at reducing the prevalence of HIV and STIs among marginalized communities. These initiatives are supported by the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) in partnership with the Haryana State AIDS Control Society (HSACS) and the Delhi State AIDS Control Society (DSACS).
- Faridabad TI focuses on reaching Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) and Transgender (TG) persons, supported by NACO-HSACS.
- South Delhi TI exclusively serves Transgender communities, supported by NACO-DSACS.
The key objectives of these interventions are to:
- Promote safer sex practices among MSM and TG communities
- Enhance access to government health facilities, including STI and HIV services
- Provide regular medical check-ups and mental health support
- Reduce stigma and discrimination in both healthcare and community settings
Pahal’s outreach teams actively engage communities through both field-based and virtual platforms, including mobile applications and social media, to extend the reach of prevention and care services. Through these interventions, Pahal has established strong community rapport and continues to build an enabling environment where health, dignity, and inclusion are central.