"Our small
gestures make a
big difference"
Dr. Suniti Solomon
Founder, YRGCARE
Padma Shri Dr. Suniti Solomon is a pioneer and leader in the field of HIV disease. In 1986, Dr. Suniti Solomon documented the first cases of HIV infection in India. As part of that effort, she founded the Y.R. Gaitonde Centre for AIDS Research and Education (YRGCARE). She was posthumously conferred the Padma Shri, India's fourth highest civilian award on Republic Day 2017, in recognition of her pioneering work in the field of HIV disease and her yeoman service to HIV-positive people, their families, their communities, and the country.
VISION
That people with HIV/AIDS and their families live with dignity and that there are no new infections.
MISSION
To respond to the prevention, care, and research needs of the country.
HISTORY
Dr. Suniti Solomon(left) working on the research project that led to discovery of HIV infection in India during 1986
YRGCARE Team at its first facility in Chennai mid 1990s
Dr Suniti at the first set of meetings with goverment officials and international experts to discuss about HIV prevention and care management
Dr Suniti meeting with the government medical authorities when she documented the first 6 cases of HIV in India
Dr. Suniti Solomon(left) working on the research project that led to discovery of HIV infection in India during 1986
Dr Suniti doing voluntary counseling and testing
Dr Suniti with the children during the pediatric clinic and Christmas Party
The Y.R. Gaitonde Medical, Educational and Research Foundation, honours the memory of Late Shri Yeshwant Raghunath Gaitonde. Founded in 1985, the Foundation pioneers public health initiatives through YRGCARE.
YRGCARE’s expertise includes HIV clinical care for patients living with HIV, outreach prevention services, medical and counselling training, and clinical, laboratory and behavioural research. Its services include HIV treatment, care & support; sexuality and treatment education; anonymous testing for HIV/STI; matrimonial services; reproductive health and obstetric care; paediatric care and therapeutic recreation camps for children with HIV; and clinics for Men who have Sex with Men and People Who Inject Drugs.
