For the first time, free condoms for everyone in India
In the first such scheme, citizens in most major cities of India can now order in a minimum of one box of condoms - 144 pieces - for free. The 'Love Condoms' initiative has been launched by the charity AIDS Health Care Foundation. It is a commendable development in a country which has the third highest number of HIV/AIDS cases, and a 1.32bn-strong population.
Phone in or send an email for free condoms
Those wishing to get free 'Love Condoms' from AHF can reach out to them on 1800 102 8102 (toll free number). You can also send an email to freecondomstoreahf@gmail.com.
Get condoms home-delivered within a week
Since earlier, condoms have been distributed for free to high-risk groups, but stocks run out routinely; vending machines are also frequently vandalized, torn apart for scrap metal. This is the first time they are being provided for free to all. "Delivery will be made within a week to any major city of India," said Dr V Sam Prasad, Programme Director, AHF India.
HIV cases and population in India at alarming levels
According to the National Aids Control Organization, India has 21 lakh HIV-positive people. However, only 12 lakh are registered with the government. The WHO also expects India's population to surpass China's in six years, and reach the 1.7bn mark by 2050.
Shockingly, use of contraceptives, and condoms, declined
Despite alarming trends, use of contraceptives declined 35% during 2008-2016; condom use fell by 52%, and vasectomies by 73%. Meanwhile, health ministry data showed abortions and use of emergency pills, both with health risks, doubled. The onus of birth control seems to be on women - compared to 3,00,000 men who agreed to vasectomies, over 5.5mn women agreed to intrauterine contraceptive device in 2008-09.
Government rebrands Nirodh, Durex launches 'Jeans'
In 2015, the government redesigned its half-century-old Nirodh condoms with "attractive images of couples" in an attempt to draw in customers. Durex also launched its new line, Durex Jeans, to battle social stigma and embarrassment around buying condoms publicly - the package resembles leather badges on denim jeans. "Asking for Durex Jeans should be cool," said Rohit Jindal, marketing director for Reckitt India.
