An increasing number of responsible HIV infected Puneites are opting for spouses who are also infected by the virus to prevent passing on the condition to unsuspecting partners u00a0 When Abhay tested positive for HIV eleven months ago, the graduate lost hope of ever leading a happy life. Then he met Manisha who too was HIV positive and his life changed. They got married a few months ago. Abhay and Manisha have joined the increasing list of Puneites who are opting for partners who are also HIV positive instead of hiding their affliction and passing the virus on to unsuspecting partners. Of the 10 such marriages that took place in the city in the last 18 months, five have been in the last five months. Youth festival Rohini Gore, coordinator, Population Foundation of India (PFI), an NGO that works for HIV/AIDS afflicted, said, "It is a good sign that HIV positive youth are serious about not spreading the infection to their sex partners. As per the National AIDS Control Organisation figures, the spread of HIV has slowed in Maharashtra by 50 per cent in the last few years. There are an estimated 27 lakh HIV positive people in the state." PFI, Maharashtra Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS and other organisations are facilitating such marriages. Recently, they organised a youth festival in which HIV positive youth from all over the state participated. Vijay and Sangeeta are another such couple. Said Vijay, "My community opposed my decision. Even Sangeeta was worried in the beginning, but regained her confidence later." Not surprisingly, the newlyweds have no intention of expanding their family the conventional way. Said Vijay, "We won't be having our own child. But we plan to adopt an HIV positive child." Ashok (name changed), who married Sulabha early this year, said they were not planning to have a child either. "We do want to enjoy life like a normal couple," said Ashok.

An increasing number of responsible HIV infected Puneites are opting for spouses who are also infected by the virus to prevent passing on the condition to unsuspecting partners

Jab miya biwi razi, toh kya karega HIV

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