Avahan – which means “call to action” in Sanskrit – has three primary objectives:
1. Build an HIV prevention model at scale in India
2. Catalyze others to take over and replicate the model
3. Foster and disseminate lessons learned within India and worldwide
While it is too early to fully assess Avahan’s impact on HIV risk behaviors and infection rates, early signs are encouraging. Data from some of Avahan’s target areas suggest that sex workers have become more likely to use condoms, and that rates of sexually transmitted infections among people at risk have decreased. Several independent studies are underway to help evaluate Avahan’s long-term impact.
To ensure that India’s HIV prevention efforts are sustainable over time, key aspects of Avahan will gradually be transitioned to the government of India and other partners. Avahan will continue to provide significant financial and technical support throughout this transition.