On the 26th of May 2024, APAL’s State Committee of Madhya Pradesh convened a crucial discussion with Shri Pushpa Mitra Bhargava, the Mayor of Indore, concerning the maintenance allowance provided by the Municipal Corporation to individuals affected by leprosy. This meeting signified a significant stride towards addressing the financial support required by these patients, culminating in the submission of a memorandum to the Mayor outlining the concerns and needs of the leprosy-affected community.

The meeting was attended by key representatives from various organizations dedicated to leprosy prevention and support. Among them were Shri Sarang ji Gaydhane, the Secretary of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy, and Raju ji Rathore from the Sahyog Leprosy Prevention Association, along with Gopal Shinde, Bhamabai Sakhre, and Thakubai Gaikwad from the Sant Dnyaneshwar Leprosy Seva Samiti, who contributed their insights and experiences to the discussion.

Mayor Shri Pushpa Mitra Bhargava acknowledged the pressing issues raised by the delegation and assured them that the matter would be promptly addressed. This assurance has provided a glimmer of hope to the leprosy-affected community, who have long awaited an increase in their maintenance allowance to better manage their daily needs and improve their quality of life. The commitment from the Mayor to resolve this issue underscores the local government’s dedication to supporting vulnerable populations and enhancing their well-being.