JSW Steel Odisha marks World AIDS Day with extensive awareness drive across mining regions

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BARBIL, DECEMBER 1, 2025

JSW Steel’s Odisha Mining Division on Monday observed World AIDS Day 2025 with an expansive series of awareness and outreach programmes spanning its key operational areas in the districts of Keonjhar and Sundergarh. Activities were conducted simultaneously at the Nuagaon, Narayanposhi and Ganua Mines, the Barbil Central Office, and the company’s Bhubaneswar office, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to public health and community well-being.

Held in alignment with the global theme, “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,” the observance underscored the company’s focus on health education, preventive care, and community empowerment. Health camps offering free HIV testing drew significant participation, while educational workshops led by medical professionals helped demystify HIV/AIDS, dispel myths, and promote safe practices. Candlelight vigils were organised to pay tribute to those who lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses, creating a poignant reminder of the need for collective action.

The day-long activities were spearheaded by senior leadership, including Prasanna Panda (Business Head, Odisha), Chittaranjan Bahinipati (HR Head, Odisha), and Ankur Dokania (Finance Head, Odisha). “Our employees and communities are at the heart of everything we do. World AIDS Day is a powerful reminder that awareness, compassion, and access to healthcare can transform lives. We are proud to contribute to this global movement,” said Bahinipati.

In partnership with local NGOs and district health authorities, the outreach extended to vulnerable and high-mobility groups including contract workers, truck drivers, and rural communities surrounding the mines. Special awareness sessions in schools and colleges further encouraged youth participation, fostering conversations around empathy, prevention, and responsible behaviour.

As the world intensifies efforts to eliminate AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, JSW Steel’s Odisha Mining Division reiterated its resolve to build informed, resilient, and inclusive communities — ensuring that awareness translates into lasting impact on the ground.