NEWS & EVENTS

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.

On 11th February 2025, on the occasion of World Leprosy Day, the Association of People Affected by Leprosy, alongside Maya Ranavare, President of APAL, organized a significant awareness program aimed at educating the community about leprosy at the College of Physiotherapy in Miraj. This event sought to address the stigma associated with leprosy and to foster a comprehensive understanding of the disease, including its causes, symptoms, and available treatments. The program engaged students, faculty members, and community participants, promoting a collective effort to enhance knowledge and sensitivity regarding this important health issue.

The initiative emphasized the critical nature of early diagnosis and the necessity of supporting individuals affected by leprosy. Through informative presentations and interactive discussions, participants were encouraged to challenge and dispel prevalent myths and misconceptions surrounding the disease. Various educational materials, including posters and formal presentations, were utilized to convey essential messages effectively. The event underscored the pivotal role of healthcare professionals, particularly nursing students, in advocating for the inclusion and rehabilitation of individuals affected by leprosy.

10th February 2025, on the occasion of World Leprosy Day, the Association of People Affected by Leprosy, alongside Maya Ranavare, President of APAL, organized a significant awareness program aimed at educating the community about leprosy at Saksh College of Nursing in Miraj. This event sought to address the stigma associated with leprosy and to foster a comprehensive understanding of the disease, including its causes, symptoms, and available treatments. The program engaged nursing students, faculty members, and community participants, promoting a collective effort to enhance knowledge and sensitivity regarding this important health issue.

The initiative emphasized the critical nature of early diagnosis and the necessity of providing support to individuals affected by leprosy. Through informative presentations and interactive discussions, participants were encouraged to challenge and dispel prevalent myths and misconceptions surrounding the disease. Various educational materials, including posters and formal presentations, were utilized to effectively convey essential messages. The event underscored the pivotal role of healthcare professionals, particularly nursing students, in advocating for the inclusion and rehabilitation of individuals affected by leprosy.

On 6th February 2025, In collaboration with Share the Vision, APAL’s State Committee in Telangana successfully distributed food grains to 40 families of persons affected by leprosy at Vadrikal Leprosy Colony in Kamareddy District, Telangana. This initiative aimed to provide essential support to some of the most vulnerable individuals, ensuring they have access to basic necessities. The event was conducted in the presence of key community leaders and volunteers who played a significant role in making the distribution seamless and effective.

APAL extends its heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Narayana, Director of the Trust, for his invaluable services in supporting the neediest individuals affected by leprosy and their families. His unwavering commitment to humanitarian efforts continues to bring hope and relief to marginalized communities. Special thanks are also extended to Mr. Maniyada Ramesh, APAL’s State Coordinator in Telangana, along with Mr. Uppalayya and Mr. Narsaiah, the colony leaders, for their crucial contributions in organising and facilitating the distribution. Their dedication and collective efforts ensured that the aid reached the families most in need, reinforcing the spirit of compassion and community support.

On 3^rd February 2025, On the special occasion of Montfort’s birthday, ST in collaboration with APAL’s State Committee in Telangana organized a noble service program to support 100 leprosy-affected individuals across various colonies. As part of this initiative, each beneficiary received 10 kg of rice, ₹500 in cash, and a wholesome lunch.

The program was conducted in the following colonies:

Shanthi Nagar Colony

Shanthi Nagar Colony

Rajeev Gandhi Nagar, IDPL

Sanjay Gandhi Nagar, Moulali

Mother Teresa Colony, Balaji Nagar

This humanitarian effort aimed to bring relief and joy to those in need, reflecting the spirit of compassion and social responsibility. ST’s dedication to serving the less fortunate has been truly inspiring, and this event was a testament to the belief that “Service to humanity is service to God.”

On 3^rd February 2025, The APAL team, along with WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination Mr. Yohei Sasakawa, Dr. Takahiro Nanri, Director of the Sasakawa Health Foundation (SHF), and his team, visited Jaatna Leprosy Colony and Jagannath Leprosy Colony in Odisha.

During their visit, they engaged with the residents, including persons affected by leprosy and their families, to understand their challenges and offer support. As part of their humanitarian efforts, they distributed essential food grains to the families, ensuring they had access to basic necessities.

On 3^rd February 2025, World Leprosy Day was commemorated with great compassion and service at Gandhi Leprosy Seva Sangh, APAL’s State Committee in Gujarat in collaboration with Gateway of Engineering College. This significant occasion aimed to spread awareness about leprosy and extend support to those affected by the disease. Volunteers, dignitaries, and well-wishers gathered to honour the resilience of leprosy-affected individuals and emphasize the need for social inclusion and care. The event served as a reminder of the collective responsibility to eradicate stigma and uplift the lives of those living in leprosy colonies.

As part of the humanitarian efforts, grocery kits were distributed to leprosy patients and residents of nearby colonies. These essential supplies provided much-needed relief to families facing financial hardships due to social exclusion and limited livelihood opportunities. The initiative was met with gratitude and smiles, as beneficiaries received the kits with heartfelt appreciation. The event not only provided material assistance but also conveyed a message of empathy, reinforcing the belief that those affected by leprosy deserve dignity, care, and equal opportunities in society