Kohima (PTI): Faced with stigma and discrimination, HIV/AIDS infected orphans in Nagaland have been denied education and healthcare besides being exploited as child labourers.

Government officials and NGOs admit that the affected orphans were facing stigma at all levels and that it was increasing at an alarming rate.

Orphanages refuse to accept them on the plea that they lack special facilities needed for their care, NGOs working in the field of HIV/AIDS, said.

Avio, in-charge of AIDS Hospice, Cradle Ridge, Kohima said stigma and discrimination was a major hindrance in extending care to HIV infected orphans.

Project Director of Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (SACS) Dr Niephie Kire said there was no specific programme for children under phase-II of National AIDS Control Programme (NACP-II).

The care and support system was for all vulnerable sections whether child or adult in the state, he said. Kire said specific and comprehensive support and care programmes would be taken up for children infected or affected by HIV/AIDS in the state during implementation of NACP-III beginning this fiscal.

Kire pointed out that HIV/AIDS affected orphans did not have a voice.

The problem, he said, called for a multi-sectoral approach involving, government, individuals, NGOs and the community.