UB, Salgaonkar join Goa body to formulate AIDS policy

Two industrial giants "" United Breweries Ltd and V M Salgaonkar Group "" have joined Goa State AIDS Control Society (GSACS), along with the International Labour Organisation (ILO), to formulate a policy on the HIV/AIDS for their employees.

This is the first of its kind corporate policy on HIV/AIDS. The policy is based on the ILO code of practice on HIV/AIDS and national policy framework.

"We are the leading beer manufacturers known globally and as a responsible corporate, we also have social responsibility. This is a good opportunity for us to fight AIDS/HIV,"said Govind Tiwari, divisional vice-president (Goa), UB Group.

The UB Group produces 1.20 lakh beer bottles per day and and now the bottles will carry message 'Stop AIDS-keep the promise.' People between the age group of 20-45 are vulnerable to HIV/AIDS and the message on Kingfisher labels will spread awareness among atleast 10-15 per cent of those who consume alcoholic drinks.

"The company is committed not to discriminate on the basis of their HIV status. The company also respects the dignity and human rights of its employees," said Manorama Bakshi, Workplace Advisor of ILO/GSACS.

"Our company is committed to educate its workforce, particularly the most vulnerable ones in the age group of 25-49 years," said Rama Parab, Industrial Relations Manager, V M Salgaonkar Group.

As per the ILO policy guidelines the companies have pledged to be supportive towards HIV/AIDS infected people. The Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) has also documented the HIV/AIDS policy guidelines and will soon endorse with GSACSLO, said G V Prabhu, CMO of GSL.