NEWS & EVENTS

On 11^th January 2025, Maya Ranavare, the esteemed President of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL), recently attended the distinguished Sahu Chhatrapati Foundation program. This event commemorated the launch of their annual calendar, a significant milestone that celebrates the foundation’s rich cultural heritage and its philanthropic initiatives. The program was attended by several dignitaries, including Shivraj Naikote, the Secretary of the Paschim Maharashtra Devasthan Samiti, alongside other notable guests. Their participation underscored the critical importance of collaboration between cultural and social organizations in promoting community development and support.

In conjunction with the calendar unveiling, Maya Ranavare also visited a local leprosy hospital. This visit emphasized her unwavering commitment to social welfare and the enhancement of the lives of marginalized communities. Accompanied by Shivraj Naikote and other distinguished attendees, Ranavare engaged with both patients and staff, offering words of encouragement and support. The objective of this visit was to raise awareness about leprosy and to highlight ongoing efforts to provide medical care and rehabilitation for those affected. The collaborative endeavors among APAL, the Sahu Chhatrapati Foundation, and the Paschim Maharashtra Devasthan Samiti reflect a shared vision of inclusivity and compassion, aimed at creating a more equitable society.

On 10^th January 2025, APAL proudly announces our heartfelt congratulations to Mrs. Maya Ranavare, President of the Association for Persons Affected by Leprosy (APAL), for being awarded the esteemed “Lokmat Sakhi Manch Shaurya” recognition. This honour was presented by Additional DSP Rajashree Desai in acknowledgement of Mrs. Ranavare’s unwavering dedication and significant contributions to disability advocacy. Over the past twenty years, her relentless commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals affected by leprosy and their families has positioned her as a beacon of hope and a formidable advocate for marginalized communities.

Mrs. Ranavare’s journey serves as an exemplary model of inspiration. Her initiatives have not only provided essential support to individuals with disabilities but have also contributed to raising awareness about leprosy, a condition often surrounded by stigma. As a role model, she has illustrated that meaningful societal transformation is attainable through compassion and resilience. Under her leadership, APAL has empowered numerous individuals by equipping them with the necessary resources, support, and dignity that they rightly deserve. The acknowledgement of her work through the “Lokmat Sakhi Manch Shaurya” award underscores her exceptional service and the profound influence she has exerted on the lives of many individuals.

On 8^th January 2025, The Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL) in Tamil Nadu has recently undertaken a significant humanitarian effort through its State Committee. In collaboration with a generous local donor, APAL distributed essential food grains and clothing to the residents of the Annai Terissa Leprosy Colony in Vadathorasalpur. This initiative aimed to alleviate the hardships faced by individuals affected by leprosy, ensuring they have access to basic necessities and comfort in their daily lives.

APAL extends heartfelt gratitude to the donor whose invaluable support made this distribution possible. The gesture has provided much-needed relief and has been a source of hope and encouragement for the residents. Additionally, APAL gives special recognition to Mr. Rajendran, the State Coordinator in Tamil Nadu, for his unwavering commitment and active involvement in the leprosy community. His dedication to improving the lives of those affected by leprosy has been instrumental in the success of this initiative, reflecting the organization’s mission to uplift and support marginalized communities.

On 7^th January 2025, Maya Ranavare, the esteemed President of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL), accompanied by the APAL State Committee in Maharashtra, recently conducted a visit to Mangalgad Hill in Kudus Dashaashram. They were joined by the dedicated representatives of the Maharashtra Kusht Pidit Sanghatana to address a pressing issue impacting the leprosy-affected community residing in this area. The primary objective of their visit was to support and advocate for the rights of these vulnerable families, who currently face the potential threat of eviction as a result of a recent notice issued by the Forest Department.

For the past 35 years, the leprosy patients residing in Kudus Dashaashram have established their lives on Mangalgad Hill. Presently, approximately 50 families, predominantly from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, call this location home. Despite living in modest dwellings with limited resources, these families have exhibited remarkable resilience, dedicating themselves to achieving stability and securing education for their children. The community encompasses individuals of varying ages, from young children to elderly residents, all of whom have managed to sustain their livelihoods through determination and arduous effort.

In 1991, the government officially allotted this land to the Leprosy Department, acknowledging the necessity for a secure environment for those affected by leprosy. However, the recent eviction notice issued by the Forest Department has cast uncertainty over the future of these families. The visit by Maya Ranavare and the APAL State Committee, alongside representatives from the Maharashtra Kusht Pidit Sanghatana, constituted a significant initiative aimed at advocating for the retraction of this notice and seeking a permanent resolution for the residents of Kudus Dashaashram.

They have appealed to the authorities to reconsider the eviction notice and to recognize the longstanding connection these families maintain with their home on Mangalgad Hill. By withdrawing the notice and facilitating a sustainable resolution, the government can ensure that these families retain their dignity and security. The collaborative efforts of APAL and the Maharashtra Kusht Pidit Sanghatana underscore the imperative of safeguarding the rights of marginalized communities and promoting an inclusive society.

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.