Zinta 'speaks out on HIV discrimination'

Preity Zinta has spoken out about HIV infection rates in India.

The actress, who is widely known for her humanitarian work, said that more needs to be done to prevent discrimination, reports Mid Day.

The star commented: "On World AIDS Day, it is important to remember two facts - HIV is preventable, but even so in 2009 nearly one and a half lakh (150,000) Indians got infected, including 18,000 infants."

Zinta added in the statement: "In this day and age in our country we must stand up and say this is unacceptable. It is wrong to discriminate against anyone because of HIV. The starting point is information and knowledge. If we take action today, together we can reach zero new HIV infections."

The 35-year old was honoured last month at the University of East London for her charitable endeavours and contribution to Indian cinema.

The actor revealed to Digital Spy, that after two years away from the camera, she will be making her return to Bollywood in 2011.