Adolescents (children in the
10-19 age groups) constitute nearly one-fifth of India’s population and yet
their identity as a distinct demographic group has been ignored so far. It has
been realized very recently that adolescents have been an ‘under-served population
group’ and require urgent attention for meeting their health needs. This group
is particularly vulnerable because of rapid physical, psychological and social
changes occurring during adolescence about which they lack proper and authentic
knowledge, information that they should be receiving from schools, parents,
service providers and peers.
DBS provides adolescents with
authentic knowledge about the process of growing up during Adolescence,
HIV/AIDS and Substance Abuse. It aims to enhance the necessary Life-Skills in
Adolescents so that they can manage risky situations competently and develop a
positive attitude towards people living with HIV/AIDS.