NEWS & EVENTS

On 3^rd January 2025, The Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL), under the leadership of President Maya Ranavare and Joint Secretary Ramavarai Sah, remains steadfast in its mission to enhance the lives of individuals affected by leprosy. In collaboration with its State Committee in Bihar, APAL organized a significant visit to the Missionary Hospital and the Prem Nagar Gaunpura colony in Phulkari, Patna. This initiative underscores APAL’s ongoing commitment to addressing the pressing issues faced by communities impacted by leprosy while fostering meaningful dialogue with relevant stakeholders.

During this visit, APAL had the honor of hosting Mr. Keiji Nakajima, Advisor to the Sasakawa Health Foundation; Mrs. Michiko Nakajima; and Dr. Ranganadh Rao, Programme Advisor on Medical Issues. Their participation highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the challenges confronting leprosy-affected individuals. The visit facilitated interactions with residents of the colony, providing a platform to discuss critical issues, including the necessity for improved access roads, housing renovations, and nutritional challenges. These discussions reinforced the urgent need to address infrastructure deficiencies and enhance the overall quality of life within the community.

Furthermore, APAL engaged in constructive dialogues with media representatives, whose role is essential in raising awareness about the realities faced by individuals living with leprosy and the initiatives aimed at supporting these communities. By bringing these issues to the forefront, APAL seeks to secure public and governmental support for the implementation of sustainable solutions. This visit exemplified APAL’s advocacy for holistic and inclusive development, striving to ensure dignity and improved opportunities for those affected by leprosy.

**APAL Interaction Meeting in Bihar Focuses on Leprosy Services and Community Welfare**

The Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL) recently convened an Interaction Meeting with its State Committee in Bihar, aimed at enhancing leprosy services and addressing the challenges faced by communities affected by leprosy. This meeting provided a forum for comprehensive discussions regarding the current conditions of leprosy communities and colonies in Bihar. Participants articulated insights into the social, medical, and economic challenges encountered by individuals and families impacted by leprosy. The dialogue concentrated on identifying sustainable, long-term solutions to empower these communities, enabling them to live with dignity and integrate into mainstream society.

The meeting was marked by the active participation of several key leaders and advisors. Mrs. Maya Ranavare, President of APAL, underscored the necessity of inclusive strategies to elevate the status of the leprosy-affected population. Mr. Ramavarai Sah, Joint Secretary of APAL, emphasized the ongoing need for efforts to enhance healthcare access and facilitate social integration. The event also featured contributions from Mr. Keiji Nakajima, Advisor to the Sasakawa Health Foundation, and Mrs. Michiko Nakajima, who offered valuable international perspectives on advancing leprosy services. Dr. Ranganadh Rao, Programme Advisor on Medical Issues, presented significant medical insights, focusing on innovative methods for care and prevention.

This collaborative meeting represented a substantial advancement in addressing the multifaceted issues faced by leprosy communities in Bihar. It reaffirmed APAL’s commitment to fostering an inclusive society where individuals affected by leprosy can thrive free from stigma and discrimination. The outcomes of these discussions will inform future initiatives and fortify APAL’s mission to transform lives, ensuring the integration of affected individuals into the social fabric with dignity and equality.

On 2^nd January 2025, A complimentary health check-up camp was organized at the Mahatma Gandhi Leprosy Colony, facilitated by the esteemed Dr. Hedgewar Health Centre in collaboration with the APAL State Committee in Bangalore. This initiative aimed to provide essential healthcare services to the residents of the colony, ensuring they receive timely medical attention and support. The event was highlighted by the presence of Shri Dr. Shailesha Jee Kannura, who conducted patient examinations and provided expert consultations, addressing their health concerns with remarkable dedication.

Key individuals and staff from the health centre played an instrumental role in the success of the event. Shri Raju Anna Magimath attended the occasion, offering support for the initiative. The dedicated team from the Dr. Hedgewar Health Centre, consisting of Mr. Premananda, Kumari Mahadevi, Mrs. Vijayalakshmi, Mr. Siddu, and Mr. Neminatha, worked diligently to ensure the efficient operation of the camp. Additionally, Shri Sriram Mali contributed to the coordination and management of the event. Their collective efforts emphasized the significance of community healthcare and underscored the commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals affected by leprosy.

On 2^nd January 2025, The Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL) is a dedicated organization led by its president, Mrs. Maya Ranavare, who is committed to advocating for the rights, dignity, and socio-economic empowerment of individuals and families impacted by leprosy. APAL prioritizes the elimination of stigma, the improvement of living conditions, and the facilitation of access to social entitlements. The organization actively engages with communities, government entities, and international organizations to fulfill its mission. The State Committees of APAL play a vital role in addressing region-specific challenges, ensuring that every individual affected by leprosy has the opportunity to live with dignity and be integrated into mainstream society.

Recently, APAL, in conjunction with its State Committee in Bihar, hosted a significant visit from Mr. Keiji Nakajima, Advisor to the Sasakawa Health Foundation; Mrs. Michiko Nakajima; and Dr. Ranganadh Rao, Programme Advisor on Medical Issues. The delegation conducted a tour of several leprosy colonies in Bihar, engaging with both the State Committee members and the residents of these communities, which consist of individuals and families affected by leprosy. The visitors interacted with residents to gain insights into their daily challenges, assess their living conditions, and evaluate the state of infrastructure within the colonies.

During the visit, the delegation identified several critical issues faced by the community, including inadequate housing, poor sanitation, and limited access to essential medical care. They scrutinized the status of social entitlements provided by the Government, encompassing disability pensions, housing schemes, and healthcare services. The interactions with residents and State Committee members underscored the pressing need for increased governmental and societal support to address these urgent challenges.

The delegation’s visit emphasized the significance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in enhancing the rights and welfare of individuals affected by leprosy, thereby inspiring a renewed commitment from APAL and its collaborators to advocate for transformative change.

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On December 31, 2024, a significant event took place at the Shantinagar Leprosy Colony, coinciding with the New Year celebrations. The State Committee of APAL, in collaboration with Teacher Hephshiba Madam and supported generously by Zekaraiah Garu, organized an impactful distribution program that provided sarees to 35 women residing in the colony. This event represented a demonstration of compassion and community engagement, bringing joy and a sense of belonging to the residents.

The distribution program was honoured by the attendance of APAL’s State Coordinator, Maniyada Ramesh, whose unwavering commitment to the welfare of individuals affected by leprosy continues to serve as an inspiration. Prominent elders from the colony, including Y. Samuel, Rahimatullah, Ch. Mallaiah, and Y. Chakali, also actively participated in the program, underscoring the unity and resilience within the community. The initiative was met with profound gratitude from the residents, marking a memorable commencement to the New Year.

On Saturday, December 28, 2024, a distribution program was organized by the State Committee of APAL in Telangana in collaboration with the Grace Service Society Khammam to assist families affected by leprosy in Shantinagar Colony and Santosh Nagar Colony within the Peddambarpet area. This initiative provided essential items such as 5 kilograms of rice, blankets, sarees, and shirts, thereby benefiting 150 families.

The distribution was managed by Jacob, the President of the Grace Service Society, alongside the dedicated staff of the organization. Maniyada Ramesh, APAL’s State Coordinator in Telangana, served as the chief guest for the event. Additionally, Jayashree Raja Garu, the Municipal Chairperson of Peddambarpet, attended to express her support. Esteemed elders from the community, including Y. Samuel, Dominic Rahimatullah, Ch. Mallaiah, Y. Chakali, J. Pullaiah, N. Pentaiah, R. Ramulu, and Azeez, were also present to witness the event.

APAL and the local communities expressed their profound gratitude to the Grace Service Society for their steadfast dedication to enhancing the lives of individuals affected by leprosy. This collaborative initiative exemplified a strong sense of solidarity and compassion for marginalized communities. Special acknowledgement is extended to Maniyada Ramesh for his significant contributions to the distribution efforts.

Mr. Sarang Gayadhane, General Secretary of APAL, together with the State Committee and leaders from nine leprosy colonies, recently convened with the District Magistrate of Indore to present a memorandum advocating for an increase in social entitlements and disability pensions for individuals who have been cured of leprosy. This commendable initiative aims to alleviate the financial difficulties encountered by those who depend on these pensions for their basic needs and overall well-being. The delegation’s proactive engagement highlights their commitment to securing dignity and financial stability for individuals affected by leprosy and disabilities.

The advocacy for an increase in these pensions represents a critical and necessary measure towards addressing disparities in social support systems across India. While regions such as Delhi, Telangana, and Haryana provide pensions of Rs 3,000 per month, and Maharashtra offers a disability pension of Rs 2,500 in addition to a municipal allowance of Rs 4,000, Madhya Pradesh significantly trails behind with a mere Rs 600. In contrast, Andhra Pradesh exemplifies progressive policy by providing a disability pension of Rs 6,000 and additional support for individuals experiencing more than 80% disability. This stark disparity underscores the urgent need for uniform and equitable pension policies that ensure all individuals, regardless of their geographic location, receive adequate financial assistance to sustain a dignified standard of living.

Mr. Gayadhane and his team’s efforts are both commendable and serve as a potent call to action for policymakers. By drawing attention to these inequities, they are advocating for the rights and welfare of marginalized communities. Their ongoing dedication is poised to resonate with governmental authorities, encouraging meaningful reforms in pension policies. With sustained advocacy and community involvement, there exists a potential for a more promising future where every individual affected by leprosy and disabilities can live with dignity and financial security.

APAL expresses its gratitude to the District Magistrate for his affirmative response and assurance that he will communicate with the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh regarding favourable actions for individuals affected by leprosy.

On Thursday, 26th December 2024, a significant event occurred at the Shantinagar Leprosy Colony and Balajinagar Mother Teresa Leprosy Colony, where essential commodities and blankets were distributed to 53 individuals affected by leprosy. This distribution was conducted under the compassionate leadership of Maniyada Ramesh, the State Coordinator for APAL in Telangana, alongside K. Anusuya, the Vice President of APAL’s State Committee, both of whom were present to oversee and support the initiative. The effectiveness of the program was further enhanced by the involvement of Shivarani Madam and Venkateshwari from the Society of Rural Development (SRD), who played a crucial role in organizing the event and ensuring the distribution was executed efficiently. The elders of the colony, including Samuel Rahimatullah, CH Mallaiah, and Y. Chakali, conveyed their deep gratitude on behalf of the residents, expressing appreciation for the solidarity and commitment demonstrated by the APAL State Committee leadership and the SRD team. The provision of blankets and essential commodities provided substantial relief to the recipients during the colder months, thereby reinforcing the ideals of care and support for the leprosy-affected community. This thoughtful initiative addressed immediate needs and promoted a sense of dignity and inclusion among the residents, inspiring hope and optimism for a more promising future

On 22nd December 2024, APAL’s State Committee in West Bengal organized the Sara Bangla Kustha Kalyan Samity Central Committee Meeting at Manipur, Adra, West Bengal. The meeting served as a platform for key discussions on two significant agenda points.

Firstly, detailed plans were discussed for the observance of Anti-Leprosy Day in 2025. The committee emphasized the importance of raising awareness about leprosy, promoting early detection and treatment, and addressing the social stigma faced by affected individuals. Various activities were proposed, including awareness campaigns, medical camps, and community engagement programs, to ensure widespread participation and impact.

Secondly, the committee deliberated on organizational matters to enhance the effectiveness and reach of their initiatives. They reviewed the current structure, identified areas requiring improvement, and proposed strategies for stronger coordination among member organizations. The discussions aimed at building a unified and robust approach to advocating for the rights and welfare of leprosy-affected individuals in West Bengal.

The meeting concluded with a strong commitment from all members to work collaboratively towards these goals, reaffirming their dedication to the cause.

On December 20, 2024, a significant meeting took place at the Leprosy Ashram in Tahirpur, convened at the request of the State Committee of APAL in Delhi and Mr. Vijay Kumar, the General Secretary of the RWA Leprosy Complex. The Deputy Director General of Leprosy (DDGL) of Delhi, accompanied by key officials from his department, visited the ashram to address the urgent concerns of the residents affected by leprosy.

The discussions primarily focused on the population residing within the ashram and the critical need for consistent medical care, which includes the regular provision of medications and appropriate dressing for leprosy patients. These matters received particular emphasis during the dialogue, indicating the authorities’ commitment to enhancing the residents’ living and healthcare conditions.

The residents and the RWA expressed their sincere gratitude to the DDGL and the accompanying officials for their visit and for the constructive discourse that suggests actionable steps toward addressing these challenges.