Aizawl marks Int’l Condom Day with call to strengthen STI prevention
Aizawl, Mizoram, marked International Condom Day (ICD) on February 13, 2026, with a renewed call to strengthen sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention efforts. The event was a joint initiative of the Mizoram State AIDS Control Society (MSACS) and AHF India Cares, operating under the global theme “Just Use It!”.
Rising STI Rates Prompt Public Health Focus
The programme brought together key stakeholders – government officials, civil society groups, and youth representatives – to address the increasing incidence of STIs, with a particular focus on syphilis. Discussions centered on the critical role of condom use in safeguarding public health.
Minister Underscores Responsibility
Health Minister Lalrinpuii emphasized the preventative power of condoms, stating, “Protection is cheaper than regret.” She further asserted that condoms represent responsibility, not shame, and are vital for protecting young people and preserving Mizoram’s health gains. Her message was direct: “Just Use It.”
Minister Lalrinpuii also launched LOVE BRIGADE 2.0, a programme designed to expand condom access by leveraging transportation networks as prevention ambassadors. She explained that this approach aims to “bring condoms to the streets, to the youth, and into everyday life,” characterizing it as “public health in motion.”
Global Health Investments are Critical
Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil, speaking at the event, warned against the dangers of reduced public investment in condom distribution. He stated plainly, “When governments cut prevention budgets, infections rise.” He highlighted condoms as a cost-effective tool for preventing HIV and other STIs, cautioning against prioritizing more expensive biomedical interventions. He characterized ignoring condoms as “negligence.”
Dr. Sam, Country programme Director of AHF India Cares, echoed this concern, pointing to rising syphilis cases as a sign that prevention efforts are faltering. He warned, “We are losing ground quietly,” emphasizing that STI increases occur when prevention is neglected.
Dr. Sam further argued that investing in condoms ultimately reduces healthcare costs and human suffering. He stressed the importance of affordability and accessibility, particularly for young people and key populations.
Condoms Central to Prevention Strategy
Dr. Jane Ralte, Project Director of MSACS, affirmed the state’s commitment to prevention, stating, “We cannot stop new HIV infections or curb rising STIs without condoms at the centre of our prevention strategy.” She added that continued public investment and free distribution are essential for equitable access.
The event also included a condom-themed fashion presentation, designed to challenge stigma and encourage open conversations about sexual health. Organizers concluded the programme with music performances and youth-led activities, reinforcing the “Just Use It!” message and emphasizing the need for sustained prevention efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the central theme of the International Condom Day event in Aizawl?
The central theme of the event was “Just Use It!”, emphasizing the importance of condom use for STI prevention.
What is LOVE BRIGADE 2.0?
LOVE BRIGADE 2.0 is an initiative launched by the Health Minister to improve condom access by engaging bike riders, taxi drivers, and community transport networks as prevention ambassadors.
Who were the key organizations involved in organising the event?
The event was jointly organised by the Mizoram State AIDS Control Society (MSACS) and AHF India Cares.
As public health officials and advocates continue to address rising STI rates, will innovative approaches to condom distribution and stigma reduction prove effective in safeguarding the health of Mizoram’s population?