​Aishwarya Iyengar

This project was done with People Living with HIV/ AIDS to create a platform that will enable them to have social interactions 'anonymously. An interactive radio was proposed as a networking platform where people could get information about HIV/AIDS and also be able to make new connections with other people dealing with HIV. We call this radio SANGAM (meaning 'meeting point' in Hindi). Sangam was designed keeping in mind the people who came from a lower socio- economic background and who have less accessibility to high-end gadgets. 

The programmes of shows aired on this radio would involve a wide range of people from doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, therapists, social workers, to people who have lived with HIV for a long time and the ones who are at risk or have been diagnosed with HIV. Having all these people involved was to create an eclectic mix  of people related with the condition and people who can give advice and share experiences with each other with the intention of helping to cope with HIV better.

The interactive radio would be an IVRS (interactive voice response system) similar to how customer care works, with an advantage of people being able to have conference calling as an option. People can call in at free/ low cost to SANGAM to  ask questions, share their experiences or ask to get connected with other PLHA.

We hear from the people that having radio as a medium to make connections and chat works well for them as they feel safe about their identity, which otherwise in peer group (one to one) is still stigmatised. Currently, this is being taken forward to develop and pilot with the IDC, IIT Bombay.