Title :

Understanding the sexual and social networks of MSM and Hijras in India: building an evidence base for hiv prevention intervention.

Goal:
The goal of this study is to build an evidence base to inform the design and implementation of effective HIV prevention interventions (including IEC/BCC programs) for men who have sex with men (MSM) and Hijra (male to female Transgender persons) in India.

Project duration:
The duration of the project spreads over a year's span, which includes from the conceptualization of the project to the execution of the procedures that are required to make this project a success like the methodology, analysis and reporting.

Funded by:
DFID / RALF

Summary:
Sexual and social networks are crucial to understanding HIV risk and transmission and for dissemination of prevention interventions. The Humsafar Trust, in collaboration with the 6 community organizations from India Network for Sexual Minorities (INFOSEM), Proposes a qualitative research study to understand and describe sexual and social networks of men who have sex with men (MSM) and Hijras in 3 urban and 4 rural/semi-urban areas in Maharashtra, Gujarat, West Bengal, Orissa and Delhi. This study will provide an evidence base to inform the design and implementation of effective HIV prevention interventions (including IEC/BCC programs) for MSM and Hijras in India.

Outputs:

The social networks at the different rural and semi urban areas amongst the MSM and Transgender do differ but also there is vast difference in the understanding of the social ties and relation within the MSM and Transgender groups.

Secondly the vulnerability for HIV is higher for this community and that is due to lack of Knowledge or also lack insight that they have towards the disease. The MSM and Hijras feel responsible towards the other members of the community or the members of the society that they relate to in various ways will help them have a better and safer approach towards the sexual practices they indulge in which in turn will prove to reduce the risk that they are at currently.