NEWS & EVENTS

On 27^th Sep 2024, APAL’s State Committee in Haryana, in collaboration with the Leprosy Society, recently carried out a compassionate initiative aimed at supporting individuals affected by leprosy at Rohtak Kusht Aashram. They distributed MCR (Micro Cellular Rubber) footwear, which is essential for the protection and comfort of those suffering from leprosy-related foot issues, to all the inmates in the colony. In addition to this, necessary medicines were also provided to ensure the ongoing treatment and care of the residents. This initiative reflects APAL’s continued dedication to improving the lives of people affected by leprosy.

APAL expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the Leprosy Society for their invaluable support in making this event successful. The organization also extended special thanks to the members of the State Committee in Haryana for their tireless efforts and dedication in organizing and executing the initiative. A special note of appreciation was given to Mr. Govinda Swamy, whose contributions were instrumental in ensuring that this distribution reached those in need. His efforts were a testament to the spirit of community and care that defines APAL’s mission.

On 24^th September 2024, APAL’s State Committee in Karnataka, accompanied by women affected by leprosy from Vijaypur Leprosy Colony, visited the local Primary Health Center (PHC) to address a critical need for regular health and ulcer care services. During the visit, the group met with the medical officer to formally request the health department’s continued support in providing essential healthcare to individuals affected by leprosy. These services, especially ulcer care, are vital for maintaining the health and dignity of the community. The engagement was a proactive step towards ensuring that the health needs of the community are met consistently and that individuals affected by leprosy do not face neglect in accessing medical care.

APAL extends its heartfelt gratitude to the medical department of the PHC for their positive response to this important request. The willingness of the health officials to listen to the concerns of the community and commit to providing regular healthcare services is a significant achievement. Special recognition must also go to the women from Vijaypur Leprosy Colony and the Karnataka State Committee for their tireless efforts. Their rights-based approach to securing healthcare services is a testament to the power of collective advocacy and determination. By standing up for their rights and working directly with local health authorities, they have paved the way for more sustained and reliable care for persons affected by leprosy in their community.

This initiative highlights the importance of grassroots advocacy and the impact it can have on bringing about change in healthcare delivery. The visit not only resulted in a commitment from the PHC to provide much-needed health services but also reinforced the message that persons affected by leprosy have the right to equitable, accessible healthcare. APAL is proud of the collaborative efforts that led to this positive outcome and looks forward to continued engagement with the health department to ensure that these services remain consistent and effective. This victory, led by the women of Vijaypur and the Karnataka State Committee, is a shining example of how a rights-based approach can yield tangible results for vulnerable communities.

On 23^rd September 2024, The State Committee of the APAL in Telangana, in collaboration with the Health Department of Peddambar Peta Primary Health Centre (PHC), recently organized a successful health camp in the Shanthi Nagar Colony. The primary objective of this camp was to deliver essential health and ulcer care services to individuals affected by leprosy, as well as to provide medical assistance to the residents of the area. Alongside ulcer care, general medicines were also distributed to the attendees, contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

APAL extends sincere appreciation to the committed members of the medical department for their invaluable contributions on behalf of the individuals affected by leprosy. Special recognition is extended to Dr. Durgadevi, the Medical Officer of the Bastidawakhana at Peddambar Peta PHC, for her dedicated efforts in ensuring the success of this camp. APAL also expresses gratitude to DPMO Shanthiraj, Sister Vanaja Garu from Peddambarpet, and Mr. Ramesh for their significant roles in the seamless execution of the camp. Their collaborative endeavours have substantially benefited the community, particularly those affected by leprosy, by facilitating access to essential healthcare services.

On 23^rdeptember 2024, Maya Ranavare, the president of APAL, took part in the BIAnnual National Disability Network Meeting conducted in Delhi. This significant gathering was dedicated to shaping the future of disability advocacy in India. Ranavare made substantial contributions to the key deliberations, offering valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities encountered by individuals with disabilities.

During her address, she underscored the imperative of incorporating individuals affected by leprosy into disability organizations. Ranavare highlighted the considerable social stigma often faced by those affected by leprosy, emphasizing the necessity of their inclusion in these groups to facilitate their reintegration into mainstream society with dignity. Her contributions underscored the broader movement toward inclusivity, advocating for a collective endeavour to ensure that all individuals with disabilities, including those impacted by leprosy, are accorded equal opportunities and respect in Indian society.

On 22^nd September 2024, Maya Ranavare, the President of APAL, and representatives from the Maharashtra Kusht Sanghatana, recently held a meeting with Honorable MLA Annasaheb Bansode, Pimpri Vidhan Sabha, to address the pressing issue of rehabilitating leprosy patients residing in the impoverished urban leprosy colony situated in Niradhar Nagar, Pimpri, Pune-411018. This colony has been home to leprosy patients who have been marginalized by society and their families for over 50 years. Despite the provision of basic amenities such as electricity, water, and roads by the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), the residents continue to grapple with significant challenges due to their economic vulnerability and social exclusion.

During the meeting, the delegation, led by Maya Ranavare, emphasized the plight of the 33 families living in the colony. Each household has been issued photo passes by the PCMC, and house leases have been applied to their homes, providing a certain degree of security. However, these families, predominantly reliant on daily wage labour, continue to face hardships stemming from financial instability and inadequate housing. Ranavare and the Maharashtra Kusht Sanghatana sought MLA Annasaheb Bansode’s assistance in ensuring the residents are relocated to a more dignified and suitable location.

The delegation also informed the MLA that they had previously submitted a letter to the PCMC Commissioner on March 17, 2023, urging action on the rehabilitation matter. The Commissioner had referred the issue to the Town Planning Department, but unfortunately, no report has been received so far. The meeting with MLA Bansode aimed to secure his support in expediting the process and ensuring that the concerns of the leprosy patients are promptly addressed, allowing them to live with dignity in Pimpri.

On 20th September 2024, the APAL State Committee in Bihar, represented by Mr. Ramesh Prasad, Mr. Ram Barai, and Mr. Kamlesh, held an important meeting with Harjot Kaur Bamhra, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Social Welfare Department in Bihar. This meeting, which took place at the Social Welfare Department office in Patna, aimed to raise awareness about the numerous challenges faced by leprosy-affected individuals living in Bihar. The delegation presented the difficulties and hardships these individuals endure, emphasizing the lack of adequate financial support and resources necessary for their daily lives.

During the meeting, the APAL representatives discussed the Bihar Shatabdi Leprosy Welfare Allowance, expressing concerns about its inadequacy compared to the support provided in other states. They highlighted how leprosy-affected persons in other regions receive higher pension benefits, which greatly aid in improving their living conditions. By sharing these examples, the delegation underscored the urgent need for Bihar to increase its welfare allowance to ensure that those affected by leprosy in the state receive the support they deserve. To formalize this request, the APAL committee members submitted a memorandum, urging the state to enhance the existing pension scheme for leprosy patients, aligning it with the standards of other states across India.

APAL’s President, Maya Ranavare, along with members of the APAL State Committee in Maharashtra and representatives from the Maharashtra Kusht Sanghatana, visited several key leprosy colonies in the state to address pressing issues faced by residents. Their visit to Lalnager Colony, Meghjibhaiwadi Colony, and Ambewadi Colony marked a crucial step in understanding the specific challenges experienced by persons affected by leprosy in these areas. During the visit, they engaged in in-depth discussions with the colonies’ local committees, focusing on the immediate concerns that needed attention and resolution.

One of the primary issues raised during these interactions was the land-related problems that persisted in the colonies. Many residents, who are persons affected by leprosy, continue to face uncertainty around land ownership, making it difficult for them to secure their homes and build stable lives. The discussions revealed how the lack of clear land titles and the ongoing disputes over land rights are affecting the community’s access to basic infrastructure, services, and long-term stability. Maya Ranavare and the APAL delegation listened carefully to these concerns and reassured the residents that they would advocate on their behalf at both state and national levels to seek viable solutions to the land disputes and ensure better living conditions for the leprosy-affected community in Maharashtra.

The visit not only served to highlight the issues but also reinforced APAL’s commitment to empowering persons affected by leprosy and ensuring that their voices are heard in the fight for land rights and social justice.

On 19th September 2024, a delegation led by Maya Ranavare, President of APAL, visited the office of the Additional Director of Health Services (ADHS) in Sangli, Maharashtra. The delegation included members of the Maharashtra State Committee team of APAL and representatives from the Maharashtra Kusht Sanghatana. The purpose of the visit was to address the challenges encountered by leprosy patients, particularly related to the Municipal Pension Scheme. Timely disbursement of these pensions is crucial for the basic needs of many individuals affected by leprosy, and any delays or issues have resulted in significant hardships.

Maya Ranavare, a staunch advocate for the rights of leprosy-affected individuals, articulated these concerns to Dr. Shivaji Aldar. She emphasized the importance of punctual pensions and other essential support systems. The meeting also delved into various other issues affecting leprosy patients in the region, such as access to healthcare services, rehabilitation, and social inclusion. Dr. Shivaji Aldar displayed a positive response and a profound understanding of the challenges faced by the community.

APAL, in conjunction with the Maharashtra Kusht Sanghatana, expressed sincere gratitude to Dr. Aldar for his warm hospitality and commitment to addressing the raised concerns. His receptiveness to dialogue and willingness to collaborate in resolving these issues has instilled hope in the leprosy-affected community, reinforcing their faith in a more inclusive and supportive healthcare system.

On 19th September 2024, The APAL State Committee in Telangana, in conjunction with the HP Shakti Ladies Club, recently undertook a commendable initiative to distribute food grains to 85 families affected by leprosy residing in Shanthinagar Colony, Peddamberpet. This altruistic endeavour sought to address the daily needs of the community, ensuring that individuals grappling with the social and economic challenges associated with leprosy received vital provisions for their sustenance. The event not only provided tangible assistance but also infused a sense of hope and relief among the families, underscoring the values of empathy and unity.

The successful execution of the distribution event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of esteemed colony leaders, namely M. Samuel, V. Dominic, Sk. Rahemathulla, Ch. Mallaiah, and M. Chakali, who played pivotal roles in orchestrating and facilitating the seamless allocation of resources within the colony. Their unwavering dedication to the welfare of the affected families exemplifies the shared commitment of local leaders to uplift their community. APAL expressed profound appreciation to the HP Shakti Ladies Club for their invaluable service, acknowledging their significant contribution to enhancing the lives of individuals impacted by leprosy.

Special recognition was also extended to Mr. Ramesh, APAL’s State Coordinator in Telangana, whose active involvement and steadfast dedication to the cause were instrumental in the success of this initiative. Mr. Ramesh’s resolute commitment to aiding individuals affected by leprosy mirrors the fundamental principles of APAL, which revolve around advocacy, empowerment, and support for those confronting social ostracism due to the disease. His endeavours, in conjunction with the collaboration with HP Shakti Ladies Club, have positively influenced the lives of the families in Shanthinagar Colony, fostering dignity and optimism for a brighter future.

On the 19th of September 2024, the State Committee of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL) in Bihar, known as SAMUTHAN, submitted a significant application to the Chief Minister of Bihar. The application specifically addresses two pressing issues encountered by the leprosy community in the state: the necessity to increase the leprosy pension and to resolve the persistent land problems in Bihar’s leprosy colonies. These longstanding challenges have significantly impacted the livelihoods and overall well-being of individuals residing in the leprosy colonies, making this submission a crucial stride towards enhancing their living conditions.

Madam Usha, a key figure in spearheading this initiative, has been a staunch advocate for the cause. Not only does she serve as a dedicated member of the Inner Wheel Club of Patna, but she also holds the position of District President of the Janata Dal-United (JDU). Her dual roles afford her the platform and influence to champion the needs of marginalized communities such as those affected by leprosy. During the submission, Madam Usha pledged to facilitate a meeting with the Chief Minister, bringing the issues of the leprosy community directly to his attention. Her unwavering commitment and active engagement inspire hope that the grievances of these communities will finally receive the attention of the highest echelons of state governance.

APAL extends its heartfelt gratitude to the State Committee in Bihar and Mr. Ramavarai Sah, Joint Secretary of APAL, for his tireless advocacy on behalf of persons affected by leprosy. Mr. Sah’s unwavering commitment to raising awareness, fighting stigma, and improving the lives of those impacted by the disease has been instrumental in fostering change in the region.