Imphal, 01 December 2016 ( Evening News ) : As observed in various parts of the world, World AIDS day was observed in Manipur on the theme -Hands Up for HIV Prevention. The observance was held at the parade ground of the first Manipur Riffles with Chief Minister Okram Ibobi as the chief guest. Speaking at the event Okram Ibobi said the govt has been making efforts to prevent HIV/AIDS after HIV case was detected in 1990 in Manipur. He said even though the National AIDS Control Organisation NACO provides financial assistance to the state, the state govt also provides financial assistance to Manipur AIDS Control Society (MACS) from time to time. The chief minister said the govt and MACS alone cannot prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and urged the parents and youth to test for HIV/AIDS before marriage instead of reading the horoscope. Ibobi maintained that there has been a gradual fall in the spread of the disease in the last 10/20 years in the state. Speaking about the welfare programs launched by the govt to help the persons with HIV/AIDS, the chief minister said they have benefitted under national food security, AAY, pension scheme, BPL card and job card. He appealed to NGOs, civil society organisations and meira paibi members to extend cooperation to prevent spread of HIV/AIDS in Manipur