Press Releases 2007

U.S. Encourages Corporate Role in HIV/AIDS Prevention

August 21, 2007

BANGALORE - The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) today announced the CONNECT Project, a public-private sector initiative to address HIV/AIDS in Karnataka and coastal Andhra Pradesh.  The Project assists companies planning to implement staff HIV/AIDS training programs and work-place policies.

Mr. G. Ashok, Minister of Health, inaugurated the Project, advocating public-private partnerships to fight the disease which affects millions in India.  USAID's partner, Population Services International, is implementing the project in coordination with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Y.R. Gaitonde Center for AIDS Research and Education and the Karnataka Health Promotion Trust.

The CONNECT Project, which began operating in October 2006, has already signed agreements with 37 companies in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh and has leveraged over Rs. 40 lakhs through partnerships with businesses like Apollo Tyres and Aurobindo Pharmaceuticals.

The U.S. government supports the fight against HIV/AIDS through the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) which has committed an initial $15 billion over five years in 100 target countries including India to mitigate the disease.