Targeted Intervention Program for FSW, Saraikela under JSACS

Chhotanagpur has implemented Targeted Intervention Program for FSW (Female Sex Worker) under National AIDS Control Program in 2024-25 in Saraikela District with the financial support and guidance of Jharkhand State AIDS Control Society, Ranchi, and Jharkhand.

Objectives

• Prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and other STIs among FSWs and their clients.
• Ensure access to regular health check-ups, STI treatment, and HIV testing.
• Provide counseling, awareness, and behavioral change communication.
• Distribute condoms and promote safe sexual practices.
• Link FSWs to social welfare schemes for holistic empowerment

Implementation Strategies

• Peer educators engaged from within the FSW community.
• Outreach activities in hotspots across Saraikela-Kharsawan.
• Condom distribution and promotion of safe sex practices.
• Regular Health Camps and STI Clinics in collaboration with government health facilities.
• Counseling and linkage to ART Centers for HIV+ beneficiaries.
• Capacity building of SHGs and linkages to livelihood support schemes.

Achievements (2024–25)

• 450 FSWs registered under the program.
• 100% coverage of condom distribution and safe sex awareness.
• Quarterly health check-ups and STI treatment services provided.
• HIV testing and counseling conducted in collaboration with ICTC centers.
• Increased community awareness on safe sexual practices, reducing vulnerability.
• Successful linkage of FSWs to government schemes and entitlements.

Challenges Faced

• Initial hesitation among beneficiaries due to stigma and lack of awareness.
• Sustaining community participation in dung collection for the biogas project.
• Regular monitoring of high-risk groups required constant field presence.

Other Highlights

• Distribution of condoms to the FSW’s per month
• 72 Demand Generation Meeting (DGM) had been conducted throughout the year.
• 24 DIC Meeting had been organized.
• 12 monthly review meeting had been done, where progress and outcome is discussed.
• 1 advocacy meeting being held in 2024-2025.
• One health camp has been setup for the SRGs and local villagers.