NEWS & EVENTS

On 10^th November 2023, Sahayog Leprosy Prevention’s well-wishers distributed copy notebooks to the children of individuals impacted by leprosy in the coaching class operated by Sai Ram Avtaar Leprosy Seva Samiti in Indore.

APAL expresses gratitude to Sahayog Leprosy Prevention for their valuable support and considers it their responsibility to take care of the affected individuals and their families.

On 10^th November 2023, APAL’s President Mrs. Maya Ranavare, Dr. V R Pemmaraju – SHF, and Mr. Rama Varai Sah – APAL India had the opportunity to Visit Shantivan Leprosy colony, Missionary of Charity, Umshangling, Nong Poh

Mr. Pyrbot, a physiotherapist from Ri Bhoi district accompanied the SHF and APAL team to the hospital and introduced to Sr M Sarika MC in charge of the leprosy hospital, and Sr M Luciana MC of the leprosy hospital.

• 70 patients are inmates of the hospital, most of them needing disability care

• The physiotherapy unit is equipped but no trained staff is available.

• Footwear unit with facilities of micro-cellular rubber footwear lacks trained staff to provide footwear though equipment is available

• Rations for the patients are provided by Missionaries of charity and drawn from donations from local philanthropists

• Majority of the patients belong to Assam

• Mr. Kat Tongper is the local contact person for the persons affected by leprosy in the hospital

On 3^rd November 2023, APAL’s President Mrs. Maya Ranavare, Dr. V R Pemmaraju – SHF, and Mr. Rama Varai Sah – APAL India had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Chintaram Hazarika, the State Leprosy Officer (SLO) at the Directorate of Health Services in Assam.

During the meeting, they discussed the activities of the Sasakawa Health Foundation, including the work of its Goodwill Ambassador for leprosy elimination, Mr. Sasakawa. They also introduced the activities of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL). Additionally, they presented the annual report for the year 2022-23 to SLO Assam.

suggested a meeting with the Managing Director of National Health Mission (MD NHM) to discuss the challenges faced in the program. During the meeting, they shared that there were high rates of new case detection in the Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts, and a special search activity was planned in early 2024 to address this issue. The special search activity would involve the participation of staff from tea gardens and civil society organizations.

They also informed MD NHM that no other leprosy NGO was currently active in Assam and that APAL in Assam needed reorganization and strengthening to better serve the community. In addition, they provided details about leprosy colonies and contact numbers of four persons affected by leprosy.

Finally, APAL organized a meeting with persons affected by leprosy on November 4, 2023, to facilitate their interaction with the organization.

On 9^th October 2023, APAL is proud to share that the Telangana RTC staff, Mr. Ramulu. Mr. Rajinikanth and Mr. Ramesh State Coordinator of APAL, have recently distributed free bus passes to 65 members of persons affected by leprosy at Shanthi Nagar Colony in Hyderabad, Telangana.

This is a wonderful initiative that will allow these individuals to travel without any financial burden and access the facilities they need. It is heartwarming to see such kind gestures of support and care for the underprivileged members of our society. Kudos to the team for their efforts and dedication towards making a positive impact in the lives of fellow persons affected by leprosy in need.

On 9^th October 2023, APAL had the pleasure of meeting some incredible individuals who are dedicated to helping those affected by leprosy in the World. Mrs. Maya Ranavare, the President going to participate in the WHO-supported sub-national verification and assessment of the verification process for recommendations to HPA Maldives to move towards zero-leprosy status in Maldives.

Seeing such passionate and determined individuals working towards such an important goal was truly inspiring.

On 7^th October 2023, APAL is thrilled to announce that Mrs. Maya Ranavare, the esteemed President of the organization, recently graced the Global Partnership Zero Leprosy meeting held at the Leprosy Complex in Tahirpur, New Delhi. This event served as a pivotal platform for stakeholders from around the globe to converge and strategize on the collective mission of eradicating leprosy from our world. Mrs. Ranavare’s presence at this significant gathering not only underscored her personal dedication but also exemplified APAL’s unwavering commitment to the cause.

The meeting in New Delhi served as a beacon of hope, drawing together experts, policymakers, and advocates in a unified effort to address the multifaceted challenges posed by leprosy. Mrs. Ranavare’s participation lent a distinct voice to this global dialogue, bringing to the forefront the importance of comprehensive approaches that prioritize both treatment and societal integration for individuals affected by leprosy. Her insights and contributions resonated deeply within the assembly, fostering a spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility among attendees.

APAL’s steadfast dedication to improving the lives of those impacted by leprosy was vividly reflected in Mrs. Ranavare’s active engagement at the Global Partnership Zero Leprosy meeting. As the organization continues to champion innovative solutions and advocate for marginalized communities worldwide, Mrs. Ranavare’s presence serves as a powerful reminder of the collective strength and determination required to achieve a world free from the stigma and suffering associated with leprosy.

On 6^th October 2023, APAL recently attended a meeting in Delhi on Navigating Health and Education, which discussed the journey of children with disabilities and those requiring regular medical care. Mrs. Maya Ranavare, the President of APAL was present at the meeting.

It was a very informative and productive session, where we discussed various challenges faced by these children and ways to improve their access to healthcare and education. Overall, it was a great opportunity to learn and share ideas with other professionals in the field.

On 6^th October 2023, In collaboration with wonderful Devotees of Baba through Sri Sathya Sai Seva Samiti and APAL distributed essential commodities, including sarees and blankets to 150 families of persons affected by leprosy at Shantinagar Colony and Santhosh Nagar Colony in Hyderabad, Telangana

It’s crucial to acknowledge and APAL express gratitude towards Baba’s devotees who have made this possible. Their selfless acts of kindness and generosity will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the lives of those affected by leprosy, as well as their families. It’s heartwarming to see individuals come together to make a positive difference in the world.

APAL convey a special thanks to Mr. Ramesh State Coordinator of APAL for his active contribution to the leprosy community.

On 4^th October 2023, APAL collaboration with the Lions Club headed by Ramreddy distributed essential commodities such as ration in Santosh Nagar Colony. The distribution was made possible with the help of Saraswati Madam, who did it in memory of K. Jayalakshmi’s father Mr. Umamaheshwar Reddy.

In addition, the Lions Club will provide tent goods in the colony. The governor has promised the state leader M Ramesh State Coordinator of APAL and the residents of the colony have expressed their gratitude for the support they received.

On 3^rd October 2023, During a recent visit to Tilak Nagar Colony in Panvel, Maharashtra, APAL along with the Maharashtra Kusht Nivaran Sangh and respected Ms. Vrushali Corporator of Maharashtra and advocate observed the need for cleaning up the colony. They interacted with the residents and saw firsthand the importance of taking action to improve the cleanliness of the area.

APAL would like to express gratitude to Ms. Vrushali for her intervention and efforts and give special recognition to the Maharashtra Kusht Nivaran Sangh and their team for their dedication and responsibility to helping society.