The Kochi Corporation will launch a special rehabilitation package 
for HIV-affected persons under its limit on December 5. Titled ‘Karuna’,
the major aim of the project is to support the persons who are affected
with HIV and AIDS by encouraging them to come  to the forefront and get
trained in skilled labour. The programme is being launched by the
Corporation in association with the Centre for Advanced Projects and
Solutions (CAPS), an NGO working for AIDS awareness.

The project
will be launched using funds under the Kerala Sustainable Urban
Development Project (KSUDP). Under the project, special training will be
given to to the HIV-affected in a set of skills that will help them
find a livelihood.

“We actually planned to launch the programme on
December 1, in connection with the World Aids Say. However, some
unexpected delays have forced us to change the plan. Now the programme
will be launched on Thursday,” said Kochi corporation health standing
committee chairman T K Ashraf. The rehabilitation package for the HIV
affected also include an awareness  programme, training in various
skills, including driving, and supply of medicines to them. A total of
`6 lakh will be utilised in the first phase of the project.