NEWS & EVENTS

APAL President Maya Ranavare, along with the Executive Committee and State Coordinators from 18 states, participated in a one-day All India Convention for Leprosy Affected on July 18 at the Rajasthan International Centre, Jaipur. Organized by Sarthak Manav Kushtashram and Leben Ohne Lepra, Germany, the event was graced by chief guest Kalraj Mishra, Governor of Rajasthan, and chairman Ram Naik, former Governor of Uttar Pradesh. The convention aimed to address the current conditions and rehabilitation efforts for those affected by leprosy.

Prominent attendees included D R Mehta, Dr. K L Jain, I.C. Srivastava, and representatives from various leprosy organizations. Mr. Mishra emphasized the importance of treatment and rehabilitation, noting the high prevalence of leprosy in India and calling for increased public participation and education for affected children.

Ram Naik shared his long-standing advocacy for leprosy victims, highlighting efforts in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra for housing and allowances. The convention concluded with discussions on social and economic challenges faced by those affected by leprosy, with experts and civil society leaders sharing insights and solutions.

APAL extends heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Suresh Kaul for his invaluable role in the success of the All India Convention for Leprosy Affected. His dedicated efforts have significantly improved the lives of individuals affected by leprosy and their families. Through his leadership and commitment, the convention provided a platform for meaningful discussions on enhancing living conditions and promoting dignity for those impacted. Mr. Kaul’s work with Sarthak Manav Kushtashram exemplifies the positive change possible through collaboration and compassion. APAL is deeply appreciative of his unwavering support and vision.

On the 16th of July 2024, a successful disability assessment took place at the Shantivan premises. The event benefitted from the participation of an orthopaedic specialist surgeon, a psychiatric specialist, the district leprosy disability in-charge, and the district social welfare officer. The presence of the APAL’s State Committee in Meghalaya and residents of Mother Teresa Leprosy Home from Nongpoh provided significant support and compassion to the initiative. Despite a brief period of heavy rainfall, the program proceeded smoothly, commencing at 10:20 AM and concluding by 2:15 PM.

During the assessment, a total of 64 individuals affected by leprosy were evaluated. Among them, 13 were new cases, and 48 fell under other categories. The session aimed to ensure comprehensive care and support for those with disabilities related to leprosy. Attendees needing permanent disability documentation were advised to visit the office during official hours with all necessary documents and contact information to link their ADHAAR cards for further assistance and benefits.

On 14th July 2024, In collaboration with NTPC and the Lepra Society, APAL’s State Committee in Telangana successfully distributed ulcer care kits to 120 individuals affected by leprosy in the areas of Parvat Nagar Borabanda and Rajiv Gandhi Nagar IDPL. This initiative is a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in addressing the healthcare needs of marginalized communities. The distribution of these kits, which are essential for the management and treatment of leprosy-related ulcers, highlights the commitment of these organizations to improving the quality of life for those affected by this condition.

Special thanks are due to the representatives of Lepra and NTPC for their unwavering dedication to serving the most vulnerable members of society. Their support has been instrumental in ensuring that the necessary resources reach those in need. Additionally, the efforts of Mr. Ramesh Maniyada, State Coordinator of APAL, and Mariyamma, who have both played crucial roles in this initiative, deserve particular recognition. Their tireless work and useful interventions have made a significant impact on the leprosy community, providing much-needed care and support. This initiative not only alleviates the physical suffering of individuals but also fosters a sense of hope and solidarity within the community.

On 12th July 2024, a notable event brought hope and relief to these communities. Representatives from NTPC, under the guidance of APAL’s Coordinator M. Ramesh, along with officials from the Lepra Society, organized the distribution of medical kits and tubs specifically designed to aid those suffering from ulcers, a common complication of leprosy. The event was a testament to the power of collaboration and compassion in addressing the needs of marginalized groups.

A total of 105 medical kits and tubs were distributed to the residents, an effort led by the 4th ward councillor, Vidyapati Vijayender Reddy. During the distribution, Councilor Reddy emphasized the importance of using the kits and tubs carefully, ensuring that the patients could benefit fully from these resources. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the NTPC representatives and Lepra Society officials for their invaluable support and services, which have significantly impacted the well-being of the leprosy-affected individuals in these colonies.

Colony President Samel Domnik also extended his gratitude, particularly thanking M. Ramesh for his role in facilitating this generous initiative. The provision of these medical kits and tubs represents a significant step towards improving the quality of life for the residents, enabling them to manage their conditions more effectively and with greater comfort. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of continued support and resources for vulnerable communities, highlighting the positive outcomes that can arise from dedicated social responsibility and community engagement.

 On 12th July 2024, Jawahar Nagar Municipal Corporation’s 28th Division, specifically Mother Theresa Colony, witnessed a significant act of compassion and support. The National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), in collaboration with the Leprosy Society, undertook a commendable initiative to distribute medical kits to 50 leprosy victims suffering from ulcers. This effort was aimed at providing much-needed medical supplies to those afflicted by this challenging condition, thereby improving their quality of life and aiding in their treatment and recovery.

The distribution event was graced by the presence of notable figures, including APAL’s State Coordinator Mr. Ramesh, and the Colony President, Mr. Venkatesh. Together, they handed over the medical kits to the beneficiaries. Their involvement underscored the importance of community support and the collaborative spirit necessary to tackle health issues that impact the most vulnerable populations.

The efforts of NTPC and the Leprosy Society were met with heartfelt gratitude from the community. K. Anasuya and M. Manjula, representing the recipients, expressed their deep appreciation for the support extended to the leprosy victims. This initiative not only provided immediate relief through medical kits but also highlighted the critical role that corporate and social organizations play in addressing public health challenges. The representatives from NTPC and the Lepra Society were acknowledged for their dedication and commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by leprosy.

On the 11th of July 2024, a delegation from TATA Steel’s education department, accompanied by members of APAL’s State Committee in Jharkhand, visited Navjeevan Ashram in Jamshedpur as part of an extensive program aimed at evaluating and enhancing the living conditions and educational prospects for leprosy-affected residents in the colonies. During the visit, officials engaged directly with the colony residents, conducting comprehensive inquiries to comprehend the daily challenges they face and the educational requirements of their children.

The visit facilitated a meaningful interaction between the officials and the community, offering a platform for the voices of those affected by leprosy to be heard and acknowledged. The Jharkhand State Committee, along with the colony leaders, extended sincere appreciation to the TATA Steel team, Mr. Zainuddin, the State Coordinator of APAL, and his dedicated team. Their steadfast dedication and contributions to the welfare of leprosy-affected individuals and their families were duly recognized and deeply appreciated. This acknowledgement underscores the impactful collaborative efforts of APAL and local leaders in improving the quality of life and education within these communities.

On 10th July 2024, The President of APAL Mrs. Maya Ranavare, led a visit to Ulhasnagar Colony in Mumbai, Maharashtra, accompanied by the state committee members. During this visit, the committee engaged deeply with the colony leaders and residents, focusing particularly on the women of the community. The discussions centred around several crucial issues, including health concerns, the need for medical support, education for children, livelihood opportunities, self-employment, skill development methods, and the hygiene of the colony areas.

The women of Ulhasnagar Colony played a significant role in these discussions, openly addressing the problems they currently face. They shared their experiences and highlighted the urgent need for sustainable solutions. The dialogue aimed to identify and implement long-term strategies to improve the living conditions and overall well-being of the residents. The visit by APAL’s President and the state committee underscored the organization’s commitment to addressing the community’s needs and empowering women to take an active role in finding and executing these solutions.

On 9th July 2024, The President of APAL, Maya Ranavare, accompanied by the APAL State Committee of Maharashtra, conducted a visit to Ambernath Colony in Maharashtra today. This visit constituted part of their persistent endeavours to comprehend and address the challenges encountered by individuals affected by leprosy and their families. The committee’s primary aim was to directly engage with the residents and local leaders to gain firsthand insight into the daily difficulties faced by these communities.

During the visit, Maya Ranavare and the committee members engaged in discussions with numerous residents and community leaders. They deliberated on pressing issues such as insufficient healthcare services, social stigma, and substandard living conditions. The conversations were open and underscored the residents’ urgent requirements for improved hygiene facilities, access to medical care, and educational opportunities for their children.

The committee put forth several propositions to ameliorate the living conditions in Ambernath Colony. They underscored the necessity for regular health examinations, the establishment of enhanced sanitation facilities, and the provision of clean water. Maya Ranavare also emphasized the significance of community awareness programs to mitigate the stigma associated with leprosy and to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment. The visit culminated in a commitment from APAL to sustain close collaboration with the community for the implementation of these propositions and to advocate for their rights at higher echelons of government and society.

On 8th July 2024, APAL President Maya Ranavare, accompanied by representatives from the Maharashtra Kusht Pidit Sanghatana, held a significant meeting with the Forest Officer of the Kalyan Taluka Department at the Forest Range Office in Kalyan (West). The delegation presented a memorandum addressing the critical issue of the non-renewal of the lease for the forest land adjacent to the Sainath Leprosy Center. This forest land is not only a primary habitat for the residents of the centre but also a vital resource for their daily living and sustenance.

In the memorandum submitted to the Forest Officer, Maya Ranavare and the representatives detailed the severe difficulties faced by the residents due to the lease’s non-renewal. On August 25, 2023, the Forest Department announced that they could not continue the lease on forest area no. 124/1. This decision has caused considerable distress among the residents, many of whom are leprosy patients with limited means. The memorandum highlighted the immediate need to renew the lease to prevent further inconveniences and ensure the well-being of these vulnerable individuals.

Maya Ranavare emphasized the gravity of the situation, underscoring that the forest land serves as the primary habitat for the residents of the Sainath Leprosy Center. The residents depend on this land for their shelter and basic needs, making its renewal critical for their survival. The memorandum was a heartfelt plea for urgent intervention by the Forest Officer to alleviate the suffering of the affected individuals and to provide them with the necessary habitat.

The meeting and the submission of the memorandum showcased the commitment of APAL and the Maharashtra Kusht Pidit Sanghatana to the welfare and rights of leprosy-affected individuals. By advocating for the renewal of the lease, Maya Ranavare and her team demonstrated their dedication to ensuring that the residents of the Sainath Leprosy Center continue to have a safe and secure place to live, thereby upholding their dignity and quality of life.

Today, July 7, 2024, the APAL’s state Committee in Jharkhand had the privilege of meeting Shri Dhulu Mahato, the Lok Sabha Member of Parliament representing Dhanbad. During a courteous discussion, we apprised him of the significant issues faced by the 25 leprosy colonies within the Dhanbad Lok Sabha constituency. These communities are encountering various challenges, and it was imperative to bring their predicament to the attention of our esteemed MP.

We respectfully requested Shri Mahato to visit these leprosy colonies to gain a firsthand understanding of their living conditions and the specific problems they encounter. His presence and support would be invaluable in addressing the critical needs of these marginalized communities. We are pleased to share that Shri Dhulu Mahato has assured his commitment to the cause. He affirmed that he would indeed work diligently for the welfare of the residents of these colonies, providing them with the necessary support and attention they deserve.