Ladakh is a mountainous region with approximately half of its population living in small, remote villages. Consequently, many of CHAI’s projects are designed to meet the needs of these villagers, and are delivered in these remote locations. Areas addressed include: awareness of sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis B, health and wellness skills for secondary school students, and education on mental health issues. As well, training has been provided for local health care staff to better serve marginalized children, and to educators to increase inclusion of differently-abled students in the school system. CHAI volunteers have also consulted with families regarding treatments and adaptations for children who have developmental disabilities thus promoting quality of life and community integration.
One of CHAI’s key partners in Ladakh is Health Inc, a grassroots non-governmental organization that has been supporting initiatives in community development, agriculture, environment, health, and education since 2009. CHAI was pleased to able to collaborate with Health Inc on their HIV and Hepatitis B Support Project that provides services for women and children who have tested positive for HIV and Hepatitis B and cannot afford treatment. The program offers the support necessary for them to receive ongoing treatments, such as viral load testing and counseling, and to maintain healthy diets enabling them to be active members of their families and communities. The success of this model of service has informed government policy and has led to increased funding from the state of Jammu and Kashmir for medication and education in the treatment of HIV and Hepatitis B for all Ladakhis.
