Shimla’s ‘Red Run’ Brings Youth Together to Spread HIV Awareness
Young runners from across Himachal Pradesh came together in Shimla for a cause that went beyond competition, spreading awareness about HIV/AIDS, challenging misconceptions and encouraging greater sensitivity towards people living with HIV.
The Himachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society organised the fourth edition of the state-level ‘Red Run’ marathon at Peterhof under the theme ‘Youth for HIV and STI’. The event also encouraged youngsters to embrace healthier lifestyles and stay away from substance abuse.
Director of Health Services Dr Gopal Beri, the chief guest, flagged off the marathon, which featured separate competitions for men and women. Seventy participants from seven districts, Shimla, Bilaspur, Mandi, Solan, Kangra, Una and Hamirpur, took part, running along the route from Peterhof to the Chief Telegraph Office (CTO).
The Red Run is an initiative of the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) and is implemented through Red Ribbon Clubs in colleges. By involving young people, the programme aims to spread reliable information about HIV/AIDS, encourage preventive measures and tackle the stigma and discrimination often faced by people living with HIV.
Officials at the event stressed that accurate information and community participation are crucial in addressing HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Another key focus was the health risk associated with injecting drug use. Sharing contaminated needles and syringes can transmit infections including HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. The state government is running awareness campaigns to educate young people about these dangers and discourage substance abuse, particularly injectable drugs.
Screening and testing facilities are also being provided across Himachal Pradesh to promote early detection and timely treatment. Counselling and Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) services are available for people who use opioids. According to information shared at the event, 20 OST centres are operating across nine districts: Una, Shimla, Hamirpur, Chamba, Kangra, Sirmaur, Bilaspur, Kullu and Mandi.
Shimla, Hamirpur Runners Shine
In the men’s category, Jatin of Shimla clinched the top spot, with Dhruv of Shimla finishing second and Aryan of Hamirpur securing third place.
In the women’s category, Shivali of Hamirpur emerged winner, followed by Kumari Ravina of Una in second place and Rashi of Hamirpur in third.
Four participants, two boys and two girls, will now be selected to represent Himachal Pradesh at the national Red Run marathon in Patna, Bihar, on 3 November 2026.
