NEWS & EVENTS

On 10^th March 2025, APAL’s State Committee in Madhya Pradesh took a significant step in advocating for the rights of persons affected by leprosy by facilitating their access to biometric ration cards. Many individuals affected by leprosy have lost their fingers due to ulcers, making it difficult for them to provide fingerprints, a mandatory requirement for availing government social entitlements, including food security benefits. This long-standing issue has prevented several people from accessing their rightful benefits, leaving them in a vulnerable state. Recognizing this challenge, APAL intervened to ensure that these individuals from Sevada Aashram Machla, Indore, were not deprived of their essential needs due to a technical limitation.

To address this issue, APAL’s State Committee in Madhya Pradesh organized a visit to the Collector’s Office, taking affected individuals along to advocate for a viable solution. With persistent efforts and dialogue, they successfully convinced the authorities to accept an alternative biometric verification method—iris scanning—for the submission of their Know Your Customer (KYC) details. This breakthrough ensured that individuals who could not provide fingerprints due to their condition were still able to access their ration cards and other social benefits without further obstacles. This initiative not only resolved an immediate issue but also set a precedent for similar cases, strengthening the movement for equal rights and inclusion of persons affected by leprosy in government welfare programs.

On 10^th March 2025, On the occasion of International Women’s Day on March 8, APAL’s State Committee in Telangana, in collaboration with the Children of Deccan Foundation, organized a special awareness program to highlight the significance of women’s empowerment and child protection. The event brought together women from diverse fields, fostering discussions on the challenges they face and the need for collective action to promote gender equality. Through interactive sessions and insightful talks, participants shared their experiences, emphasizing the importance of education, economic independence, and legal awareness in ensuring women’s rights and safety.

Key dignitaries graced the program, including Mr. Ashok Kumar, founder of the Children of Deccan Foundation; Mr. Malkanna, Child Protection Officer; Ms. Mary, a dedicated women’s welfare activist and NGO representative and Maniyada Ramesh APAL’s State Coordinator in Telangana. They highlighted the urgent need for policies and community initiatives that support women’s growth and protect children from exploitation. The event concluded with a strong commitment to continuing efforts toward empowering women and fostering a safer, more inclusive society where every woman and child can thrive.

On 9^th March 2025, APAL, in collaboration with the Karuna Project and Stepping Stone Charitable Trust, celebrated World Women’s Day with great enthusiasm at Sanjay Nagar, Borivali, Mumbai. The event aimed to recognize and honor the strength, resilience, and contributions of women, especially those from marginalized communities. The celebration was marked by inspiring speeches, cultural performances, and interactive sessions that highlighted women’s empowerment, gender equality, and the need for continued support in their journey toward a better future.

Ms. Maya Ranavare, President of APAL, along with Dr. Farzana Mulla and the residents of the colony, actively participated in the event. Ms. Ranavare emphasized the importance of providing equal opportunities to women, particularly those affected by social stigma and health challenges. Dr. Mulla shared valuable insights on women’s health and well-being, stressing the significance of education and awareness in improving their quality of life. The residents also came forward to share their experiences and stories of resilience, making the event more engaging and impactful.

The celebration concluded with a pledge to continue working towards women’s rights, inclusion, and empowerment. APAL, the Karuna Project, and Stepping Stone Charitable Trust reaffirmed their commitment to supporting women through advocacy, healthcare, and skill-building initiatives. The event served as a reminder that collective efforts can bring meaningful change and uplift communities, ensuring a more inclusive and equitable society.

On 5^th March 2025, The Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL) continues its dedicated efforts to address the medical and social challenges faced by individuals affected by leprosy across India. In line with its commitment to ensuring better healthcare and support systems, APAL, along with its State Committee in Maharashtra, recently met with Dr. Ramji Adkekar, the Additional Director of Leprosy, Maharashtra State. The meeting, held at his office, focused on discussing the pressing medical issues faced by persons affected by leprosy and identifying permanent solutions to improve their healthcare access and quality of life.

Ms. Maya Ranavare, President of APAL, and Mr. Jitedran from the APAL State Committee in Maharashtra led the discussions, highlighting critical concerns such as timely diagnosis, availability of essential medicines, and improved healthcare facilities in leprosy colonies. They emphasized the need for strengthened government intervention to ensure that individuals affected by leprosy receive sustained medical care without facing discrimination or delays. The delegation also explored strategies to enhance rehabilitation programs and community-based healthcare initiatives to prevent further complications among patients.

Dr. Ramji Adkekar acknowledged the concerns raised by APAL and assured his support in addressing them effectively. He expressed his willingness to collaborate with APAL to implement systematic solutions, including improving the distribution of Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT), ensuring regular health check-ups, and providing better ulcer care management. The meeting marked a significant step toward bridging the gap between government health initiatives and the needs of leprosy-affected individuals in Maharashtra, reinforcing APAL’s commitment to advocating for sustainable healthcare solutions for the community.

On 5^th March 2025, APAL’s State Committee in Telangana, in collaboration with local donors including Marwadi Madam Brandam, recently organized a heartwarming initiative aimed at supporting the underserved. Essential household items were distributed to 32 leprosy-affected families residing in Santosh Nagar Leprosy Colony in Peddampet Pasumamula. This outreach effort not only provided much-needed daily necessities but also helped restore hope and dignity among the community members during challenging times.

APAL extends its sincere gratitude to the local donors for their generous support and active participation in this noble cause. A special thanks is due to Maniyada Ramesh, APAL’s State Coordinator in Telangana, whose leadership and dedicated involvement were crucial to the successful execution of the distribution. His commitment ensured that the assistance reached the families efficiently, making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.

On 21 February 2025, the APAL State Committee in Jharkhand submitted a formal application to the Deputy Commissioner (DC) and Sub-Divisional Officer (SDM) concerning eviction notices issued to residents of both the Domgarh and BMP Leprosy Colonies. Additionally, a visit to the Dhanbad Municipal Corporation was conducted to assess applications under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.

The Food Corporation of India (FCI) issued an eviction notice to the Domgarh Leprosy Colony, which necessitated an appeal for intervention. Similarly, the Railway Department notified the BMP Leprosy Colony, prompting discussions with administrative officials regarding potential rehabilitation solutions. A meeting was convened with the Additional District Magistrate (ADM), during which representatives urged the authorities to acknowledge the residents’ rights and to refrain from executing forced evictions in the absence of alternative housing options.

Officials at the Dhanbad Municipal Corporation reviewed the status of housing applications, discussing the requisite measures to secure benefits for the affected families. The efforts were led by APAL representatives, including Vice President Jawahar Ram Paswan and Jharkhand Leader Madhusudan Tiwari.

Authorities have been urged to undertake appropriate actions, and follow-up meetings are planned to ensure rehabilitation support and long-term housing security for displaced residents.

On 21^st February 2025, APAL’s State Committee in Maharashtra, in collaboration with Maharashtra Kusht Pidit Sanghatana, took a significant step in advocating for the land rights of the residents of the Indiranagar Leprosy Colony in Miraj. On 20th February 2024, members of both organizations and residents of the colony staged a protest in front of the Sangli, Miraj, and Kupwad Municipal Corporation offices, demanding immediate action for the rehabilitation of leprosy-affected families who had been displaced due to the ongoing demolition of their homes. The protest aimed to bring attention to the long-standing issue of land rights and the urgent need for permanent housing for the affected families, who have been struggling without a place to stay.

During the protest, Mr. Jitendra Chavan State coordinator in Maharashtra presented a formal letter outlining the key demands of the displaced residents. The protestors emphasized that the 28 affected families had been living in Indiranagar for years, and despite multiple appeals, their rehabilitation had not been prioritized. They insisted on an expedited process to provide them with alternative housing under government schemes. The demonstration attracted widespread attention, drawing support from various community members and human rights activists advocating for the dignity and well-being of leprosy-affected individuals.

In response to the protest, the Sangli, Miraj, and Kupwad Municipal Corporation administrations acknowledged the demands and assured the protestors of a positive approach to resolving the issue. Officials confirmed that under the Swachh Miraj Station Road Scheme and the Babasaheb Ambedkar Housing Scheme, the displaced families had already been relocated. They committed to demolishing the remaining western part of the affected area and ensuring the rehabilitation of all affected residents within the next two to three months. The administration urged the protestors to call off the demonstration, assuring them that the process was already in motion and that the authorities were committed to securing permanent housing for the leprosy-affected families.

While the intervention and protest marked a crucial step in amplifying the voices of Indiranagar’s leprosy-affected community, APAL’s State Committee in Maharashtra and Maharashtra Kusht Pidit Sanghatana pledged to closely monitor the implementation of the promised rehabilitation. They vowed to continue their advocacy until all displaced families receive their rightful homes and are fully integrated into mainstream society with dignity and security.

The APAL (Association of People Affected by Leprosy) State Committee in Madhya Pradesh, in collaboration with the Samarpan Foundation Trust, Red Cross Society, and the District Health Department, organized a free health camp on February 15, 2025, at the Sant Dnyaneshwar Leprosy Service Committee. This initiative aimed to provide essential medical check-ups and healthcare support to individuals affected by leprosy and the local community. The event was a significant step towards ensuring better health and well-being for those in need, reinforcing APAL’s commitment to empowering and uplifting people impacted by leprosy.

The health camp witnessed the participation of APAL’s Secretary, Mr. Sarang, Mr. Gopal Shinde, Ms. Sarita Dhundhle, and Pawan Bavne from the State Committee. Additionally, all the ashram residents were actively involved in the camp. A total of 230 individuals benefited from free medical consultations, check-ups, and necessary treatments.

On Friday, February 14, 2025, the State Committee of APAL, in collaboration with local organizations, conducted an impactful initiative at the Shantinagar Leprosy Colony in Peddamberpet. During this event, Dr. Papa Rao, the District Leprosy Officer, facilitated the distribution of footwear to individuals affected by leprosy.

The initiative received significant support from Sulochana Madam, Project Officer of the Leprosy Society, The event also featured the participation of Dr. Rudramadevi, the District Public Health Officer, and Kameshwar Rao Baburao, Project Officer of the Shanthiraju Leprosy Society.

APAL is thankful to all supporters and special thanks to Maniyada Ramesh APAL’s State Coordinator in Telangana for his active contribution to the distribution.

On 11^th Feb 2025, APAL, in collaboration with Reliable Trust (Khammam), played a pivotal role in organizing a humanitarian relief initiative within the Devapalli Leprosy Colony, located in the Ditchpally area of Nizamabad district. This initiative aimed to provide essential support to 150 families by distributing ration supplies, blankets, and sarees to assist them in managing daily challenges.

The distribution program was further enhanced by the participation of Maniyada Ramesh, APAL’s State Coordinator in Telangana, who underscored the importance of ongoing support and advocacy for individuals affected by leprosy. The collaborative efforts of APAL, its Telangana State Committee, and Reliable Trust exemplified the effectiveness of unity in addressing social issues and uplifting marginalized communities. The residents of the Devapalli Leprosy Colony expressed profound gratitude, acknowledging the generosity and compassion demonstrated towards them. This initiative serves as a reminder that, through sustained support and collaborative endeavours, significant positive transformations can be achieved in the lives of individuals affected by leprosy, thereby promoting their dignity, well-being, and social inclusion.