On 19th September 2024, a delegation led by Maya Ranavare, President of APAL, visited the office of the Additional Director of Health Services (ADHS) in Sangli, Maharashtra. The delegation included members of the Maharashtra State Committee team of APAL and representatives from the Maharashtra Kusht Sanghatana. The purpose of the visit was to address the challenges encountered by leprosy patients, particularly related to the Municipal Pension Scheme. Timely disbursement of these pensions is crucial for the basic needs of many individuals affected by leprosy, and any delays or issues have resulted in significant hardships.

Maya Ranavare, a staunch advocate for the rights of leprosy-affected individuals, articulated these concerns to Dr. Shivaji Aldar. She emphasized the importance of punctual pensions and other essential support systems. The meeting also delved into various other issues affecting leprosy patients in the region, such as access to healthcare services, rehabilitation, and social inclusion. Dr. Shivaji Aldar displayed a positive response and a profound understanding of the challenges faced by the community.

APAL, in conjunction with the Maharashtra Kusht Sanghatana, expressed sincere gratitude to Dr. Aldar for his warm hospitality and commitment to addressing the raised concerns. His receptiveness to dialogue and willingness to collaborate in resolving these issues has instilled hope in the leprosy-affected community, reinforcing their faith in a more inclusive and supportive healthcare system.