Chennai:Tamil NaduHealth MinisterMa Subramanianannounced on Wednesday that four private medical college hospitals have agreed to provide free treatment to patients. The announcement came during the inauguration of an intensive awareness campaign targeting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). "This is among the several measures the state has taken to manage infections among infected people and prevent further transmission," the minister said, reports the TOI. Tamil Nadu currently has 1.39 lakh patients receiving treatment for HIV/AIDS and STDs. In the first phase of this new initiative, the following private medical colleges have agreed to provide free care: Adhiparasakthi Medical College Hospital in Melmaruvathur, Kanyakumari Medical Mission, Nanda Medical College Hospital in Erode, and Sri Venkateswara Medical College Hospital in Thiruvallur. The campaign also places a strong emphasis on youth awareness and education. On World Blood Donor Day (June 14), the state launched Red Ribbon Clubs in 11 colleges. Also Read: Himachal Pradesh prepares for comprehensive HIV, syphilis testing Speaking toTOI, the minister said, "We have added 20 new colleges today. In addition, 30 schools have been inducted for life skills education training programmes," the minister said. These clubs aim to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and support, while also promoting voluntary blood donation and addressing social issues like drug abuse and drunk driving. In a move to support children living with HIV/AIDS and STDs, the government has distributed ₹2.83 crore over the last three months to 7,618 children for their educational, medical, and nutritional needs. Each child receives ₹1,000 per month as financial assistance, the minister confirmed. Once considered a hotspot for HIV, Tamil Nadu has seen a decline in prevalence, with the current rate at 0.16%, below the national average of 0.23%. Also Read:Aurobindo Pharma to manufacture, supply HIV treatment cabotegravir across 133 countries To further spread awareness, competitions were held across schools and colleges on Wednesday, with the Tamil Nadu State AIDS Control Society awarding cash prizes to winners. "Our goal is to make Tamil Nadu HIV/AIDS-free by 2030," the minister said.