Aizawl, February 2: Mizoram is set to host the North East Multi-Media Campaign (Red Fest) 2026 on February 6, bringing together participants from across the region in a united effort to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS through music, culture, and multimedia outreach.
The campaign is being jointly organized by the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) and the Mizoram State AIDS Control Society (MSACS). Officials announced the event during a press interaction held at the Press Club in Aizawl, highlighting the importance of engaging young people and communities in the fight against HIV/AIDS through innovative and culturally relevant platforms.
According to MSACS officials, representatives from all eight Northeastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura—will participate in the event. The regional gathering is expected to foster collaboration among states while strengthening awareness campaigns aimed at reducing the spread of HIV and promoting healthier lifestyles.
The programme will be held at LPS Arena, Aizawl, and is expected to draw a large audience, including youth, community leaders, healthcare professionals, and government officials. Project Directors and senior officials from the State AIDS Control Societies of the participating states will attend the event. Senior officials from NACO, including the Additional Secretary and Director General, are also expected to be present.
Red Fest has evolved into one of the most prominent HIV/AIDS awareness initiatives in the Northeast. The annual campaign was first launched in Nagaland and has since been hosted by different states on a rotational basis. This year marks the first time that Mizoram will host the regional event, underscoring the state's active role in addressing public health challenges and promoting HIV awareness.
Organizers said the primary objective of Red Fest is to educate young people about HIV prevention, safe practices, and responsible behaviour while encouraging open discussions about issues often surrounded by stigma and misinformation. By using music, cultural performances, and multimedia presentations, the campaign seeks to reach audiences in an engaging and impactful manner.
One of the major highlights of the festival will be performances by renowned musicians and artists from different Northeastern states. Through their performances, artists will help communicate messages about HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and social responsibility. Organizers believe that music and entertainment can serve as powerful tools for spreading awareness and encouraging behavioural change, particularly among younger audiences.
The festival will also provide participating states with an opportunity to showcase their rich cultural heritage, traditions, and artistic talents. Cultural performances, exhibitions, and interactive sessions are expected to promote mutual understanding and strengthen regional unity while addressing a common public health concern.
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Officials noted that Red Fest is designed to combine education with entertainment, making awareness campaigns more accessible and relatable. The event also aims to reduce stigma associated with HIV/AIDS, encourage early testing and treatment, and promote greater community participation in prevention efforts.
Organizers expressed confidence that the festival will contribute significantly to ongoing HIV awareness initiatives in the Northeast. They emphasized that collaboration among governments, healthcare agencies, community organizations, and young people remains essential in combating HIV/AIDS and creating a healthier future for the region.
As Mizoram prepares to host the event, Red Fest 2026 is expected to serve as a vibrant platform for awareness, cultural exchange, and regional solidarity in the continuing fight against HIV/AIDS.
