PASIGHAT, AUG 28:

The Red Ribbon Club and National Service Scheme (NSS) of Jawaharlal Nehru College (JNC) Pasighat, in association with the Arunachal Pradesh AIDS Control Society (APSACS), organised the Red Run Mini Marathon 2026 at the college on Thursday to promote awareness of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among youth.

Held under the theme “Youth for HIV and STI”, the event focused on the importance of awareness, testing and prevention.

More than 50 students from various departments participated in the marathon, which was flagged off by JNC Principal Gindu Borang in the presence of Vice Principal Leki Sitang, faculty members and Red Ribbon Club and NSS representatives.

Addressing the participants, Gindu Borang urged students to remain informed and vigilant about HIV and STIs and play an active role in preventing infections and combating stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS. He called upon the youth to act as responsible ambassadors of accurate health information.

Leki Sitang stressed the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding harmful practices and taking personal responsibility for physical and mental well-being.

Red Ribbon Club Coordinator Leki Wangchu highlighted the growing concern over STIs and underscored the need for greater awareness about sexually transmitted infections and preventive measures.

As part of the awareness programme, JNC students Kenmar Lollen and Iyang Miyu spoke on HIV cases in Arunachal Pradesh and East Siang based on APSACS data, and on the role of youth in combating stigma and discrimination through the dissemination of correct information.

In the marathon, Okenmang Lego of BA-I Semester emerged winner in the boys’ category, while Albina Doley of BA-V Semester won the girls’ category. The winners were awarded medals and certificates.