Red Fest 2025
STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: The National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), in collaboration with the Assam State AIDS Control Society (ASACS), successfully hosted Red Fest 2025 (Northeast Multimedia Campaign) at the Srimanta Sankardeva International Auditorium, Kalakshetra, Guwahati, in Assam on March 7, 2025. The event, aimed at raising awareness on HIV/AIDS through music and culture, drew an enthusiastic crowd of over 1,200 attendees. The festival was inaugurated by Ashok Singhal, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Assam, in the presence of V. Hekali Zhimomi, Additional Secretary & Director General, NACO, MoHFW, and Dr. P. Ashok Babu, Commissioner & Secretary to the Government of Assam, Health & Family Welfare, alongside other dignitaries.
Speaking on the occasion, the minister said, “I am happy to note that every year NACO, in collaboration with the State AIDS Control Societies, organizes the North East Multi Media campaign that is aimed at involving the youth to spread awareness, compassion, education and support for the issue of HIV and AIDS in the region.” He further appealed to the youth to refrain from high-risk behaviour like unprotected sex and injecting drug use.
A special address was also given by V. Hekali Zhimomi, Additional Secretary and Director General. In her address, she said that such HIV awareness campaigns like Red Fest North East Multi Media Campaign reaffirm our commitment to unitedly fight against HIV in this region. A major highlight of the event was the inauguration of a Mobile ICTC Van by the Minister, aimed at improving access to HIV testing and counselling services in remote areas. The dignitaries also visited exhibition stalls showcasing various initiatives under the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP).
Popular bands from eight states of the Northeast performed during the event by spreading the messages of HIV awareness. They include Meenam Goi from Arunachal Pradesh, Snow White from Meghalaya, Chali & Crystal from Mizoram, Times Squared from Manipur, 15th NAP (IR) Mahila Band from Nagaland, Sofiyum from Sikkim, Meghbalika from Tripura, and The Family Tree from Assam.
The most anticipated performances of the evening included soulful renditions by celebrity singer Nilotpal Bora, a cultural folk fusion by Ranjit Gogoi & Team, an electrifying act by Hurai Lahori Folk Group, and special guest appearances by singer Agsy and artiste Aloke Yepthomi.
The Red Fest North East Multi Media Campaign serves as a powerful platform to engage youth and communities in the fight against HIV/AIDS by leveraging the universal appeal of music and culture.
Also Watch: