APAL, along with APAL’s State Committee – Delhi, held an important meeting in Delhi with Dr. K. S. Baghotia, M.D., on 20th December 2025. Dr. Baghotia is a senior medical professional associated with Indira Gandhi Hospital also serves as the Honourable Secretary of Hind Kusht Nivaran Sangh / Indian Leprosy Association.

The meeting was a significant step towards strengthening collaboration between APAL and national-level institutions working in the field of leprosy.

During the meeting, APAL and the Delhi State Committee shared their work, experiences, and challenges faced by persons affected by leprosy and their families, particularly in urban settings like Delhi. Discussions focused on issues such as stigma and discrimination, access to timely diagnosis and treatment, rehabilitation, livelihood opportunities, and social inclusion. Dr. K. S. Baghotia provided valuable insights from a medical and policy perspective and appreciated the role of APAL as a people-led organization working at the grassroots level.

The meeting emphasized the need for strong coordination between people’s organizations, medical institutions, and national bodies to ensure comprehensive support for persons affected by leprosy. Future strategies, joint activities, and advocacy efforts were discussed to strengthen services, awareness programmes, and policy engagement. APAL and its State Committee expressed their commitment to continued collaboration with Dr. K. S. Baghotia and the Indian Leprosy Association to collectively work towards dignity, rights, and empowerment of persons affected by leprosy and their families.