Our Story

NKP+: A Community-Driven Response to generate awareness and eliminate stigma around HIV/AIDS

NKP+ has been a driving force in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Kolhapur since 2003. Founded by a group of individuals living with HIV, the network has overcome initial challenges and grown into a vital resource for the community.

In the early years, fear and stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS prevented many individuals from joining the network. Through persistent efforts and community outreach, the board members gathered a small team of 15 to 20 PLHIV from various sub-districts of Kolhapur. With the permission of Hon. Civil Surgeon of Civil Hospital ( C.P.R. Hospital), our network began arranging peer-support meetings. More people started to join the network and slowly, NKP+ started to grow larger. Today, NKP+ successfully built trust and established a welcoming environment for people living with HIV.

With the support of government officials and healthcare providers, NKP+ expanded its services to include support group meetings, access to ART medicines, and counseling on various thematic issues. The network's commitment to providing comprehensive care and support has led to a significant increase in membership and a positive impact on the lives of individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

NKP+'s success is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the resilience of individuals living with HIV/AIDS. The network's ongoing efforts continue to address the unique challenges faced by PLHIV in Kolhapur, creating lasting impact on the community.

Our Approach

Addressing Stigma
and Discrimination

During issues of stigma and discrimination, through context-mapping, we understand the specific social, cultural, and economic factors contributing to this in the community. Assess the level of knowledge and awareness about HIV/AIDS among community members and identify information gaps. Through written materials, referrals to healthcare professionals, and peer counseling, we increase knowledge, provide emotional support, and promote positive coping mechanisms.

In cases of severe stigma or discrimination, the DRT team is activated to offer immediate assistance and intervention, ensuring that individuals facing these challenges receive the support they need.

Fostering Peer-Led Community and Support

To foster a strong sense of community and support among PLHIV, we organize regular community meetings. These meetings provide a safe space for people to connect, share experiences, and receive support from one another.

We also encourage the development of peer networks, where individuals living with HIV can offer guidance and support to each other.

We provide ongoing counseling and follow-up services to ensure that individuals under treatment have the necessary support to adhere to their treatment regimen.

Advocating
for Policy Change

To ensure that individuals living with HIV/AIDS have access to essential services, we advocate for policies that link them to social welfare schemes and programs.

We also engage with government officials, policymakers, and healthcare providers to advocate for policies that address their specific needs. By doing so, we aim to create a more equitable and supportive environment for PLHIV.

Promoting Awareness
and Education

To raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and dispel myths, we utilize local newspapers and other media channels to share accurate information.

We also conduct awareness campaigns in schools, workplaces, and community centers to reach a wider audience. We distribute educational materials, such as brochures and videos, to provide people with reliable information about HIV/AIDS prevention and care.

Annual Report

Brochure

Our Story

Our Approach

Addressing Stigma and Discrimination

Fostering Peer-Led Community and Support

Advocating for Policy Change

Promoting Awareness and Education

Addressing Stigma
and Discrimination

Advocating
for Policy Change

Promoting Awareness
and Education