Health minister calls for greater awareness to end HIV stigma
SHILLONG, Oct 28: Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla has stressed the need to create widespread awareness to combat the stigma surrounding HIV patients—not only among those affected but also within the general public. Terming the incidence of HIV/AIDS in the state as alarming and concerning, he said that many people are reluctant to come forward for treatment due to the stigma attached to the disease. Referring to an incident in Meghalaya where a child was expelled from school after the mother was found to be infected with HIV/AIDS, Shylla said that society must learn to accept people living with HIV as they too have every right to live with dignity. “We should come up with awareness for both sides and we should change our approach,” he said. Pointing out that there is no shortage of funds with the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS), the health minister informed that the society has, on many occasions, had to return unused funds. He added that even now, people in some villages tend to run away when they see MACS buses. “Instead of asking for funds, I would urge the MLAs to create more awareness and talk more about it,” he said.
BSF recruitment: Shortlisted candidates announced
SHILLONG, Oct 28: The BSF has released the list of shortlisted candidates called for document verification and detailed medical examination as part of the Special Recruitment Drive for Scheduled Tribes of Meghalaya. The shortlisted candidates have been asked to appear for the Documents Verification (DV) and Detailed Medical Examination (DME) on the dates and centres mentioned against their names. They have to produce original documents of age proof, educational qualification, domicile certificate of Meghalaya State, caste (Tribe) certificate, NCC Certificate etc. Subsequently, the final merit list will be published after completion of DV/DME test, taking account of criteria and vacancies as advertised, a statement issued here informed.
Police recover 206 kg ganja in car
NONGPOH, Oct 28: In a major drug bust, Ri-Bhoi Police seized over 206 kg of ganja from a car (AS01 EG 7234) during a vehicle checking operation along National Highway 6 near Nongpoh Police Station late Monday night. According to police sources, the vehicle was reportedly travelling from Shillong towards Guwahati when it was intercepted during routine checking. On noticing the police personnel conducting the operation, the driver and another occupant of the car abandoned the vehicle and fled from the spot. Upon thorough inspection, the police recovered 28 packets of ganja, weighing a total of 206.054 kg. Following the seizure, a case has been registered under the relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, and efforts are on to identify and apprehend those involved in the illegal drug trafficking.
Open-to-all marathon in Ri-Bhoi
NONGPOH, Oct 28: A marathon open to all members of the public will be organised by the office of the Superintendent of Police, Ri-Bhoi district, on October 31 as part of the celebration of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) 2025, which also marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The marathon, covering a distance of 5 km, will commence at 6:30 am on October 31, starting from Saiden Indoor Hall and concluding at NSCA Indoor Hall, Umlyngkdait. Winners of the event will receive cash prizes sponsored by the SP Office, Ri-Bhoi. Those interested in participating are required to register their names at the office of the District Sports Officer, Ri-Bhoi, with registration open from October 29.
