APAL’s advocacy in Bihar and the recent government action:

APAL’s State Committee in Bihar has consistently stepped up its intervention at both block and state levels. A prime example is its proactive push in early 2024, when the committee formally petitioned authorities on behalf of leprosy-affected individuals in Motihari Colony whose disability pensions had been discontinued

This action, led by activist Mr. Ramavarai Sah, ensured the reinstatement of pensions and showcased APAL’s strategic use of direct engagement with government officials.

Beyond individual cases, APAL has engaged in extensive advocacy across leprosy colonies. On 13 March 2024, the State Committee’s delegation visited Banmankhi Colony in Purnia to highlight dire living conditions: families dwelling in plastic-sheet huts on land without legal tenure

They submitted memoranda calling on authorities to secure land rights, urging remedial action to stabilize housing and support among colony residents.

In May and June 2025, supported by APAL India’s national team, the Bihar Committee intensified its advocacy activities. On 2 June 2025, APAL’s Bihar State Committee engaged with officials in Purnia to push for enhanced healthcare and social entitlement access for those in leprosy colonies

Then on 26 May 2025, they held a high-level advocacy meeting—with senior leaders present—to press the state government on disability pension entitlement issues

These efforts ultimately yielded tangible results: Bihar’s Social Security Pension Scheme was officially revised, boosting monthly pension—previously ₹400—for persons with disabilities (including those affected by leprosy) to ₹1,100. The new rate, set to take effect from 1 July 2025, was announced by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar ahead of the upcoming state elections.