NEWS & EVENTS

Introduction Mr. Someshwar Dubey, the State Coordinator of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL), has taken a significant step in advancing the well-being of the residents of Gandhi Gram Ashram in Mothipur. Recognizing the vital role of a clean and hygienic environment for the health and morale of the community, Mr. Dubey spearheaded a cleanliness intervention aimed at revitalizing the neglected areas of the Ashram. This report outlines the details and impact of the initiative led by Mr. Dubey.

Background The Gandhi Gram Ashram in Mothipur is home to residents affected by leprosy, many of whom face socio-economic challenges. Over time, the condition of the Ashram had deteriorated due to neglect, resulting in the accumulation of litter, debris, and overgrown vegetation. Understanding the unique challenges faced by the residents, Mr. Dubey aimed to empower them through active participation in the cleanup effort, fostering a sense of unity and responsibility.

The Cleanliness Initiative The initiative, organized by Mr. Dubey, involved mobilizing the residents to engage in a comprehensive cleanup of the Ashram. The intervention included:

• Removing debris and accumulated waste from common areas and living spaces.
• Clearing overgrown vegetation to improve accessibility and aesthetics.
• Restoring hygiene across the premises to promote a healthier living environment.

The entire process was community-driven, with Mr. Dubey leading by example and inspiring others to take part. The residents of the Ashram showed remarkable enthusiasm and commitment, contributing their efforts to transform their living conditions.

Community Response and Participation The response from the residents was overwhelmingly positive. Demonstrating a strong sense of solidarity, they joined Mr. Dubey in working diligently to achieve the shared goal of a cleaner and more habitable space. This collaborative effort not only addressed the physical neglect of the Ashram but also boosted the morale of the community, giving them a sense of pride and renewed ownership over their surroundings.

Outcomes and Impact The successful completion of the cleanup initiative resulted in multiple benefits:

• Improved Living Conditions: The Ashram’s environment was significantly cleaner and more sanitary, reducing potential health risks associated with unkempt spaces.
• Empowerment and Unity: The residents experienced a heightened sense of community and empowerment, realizing the power of collective action.
• Inspiration for Other Communities: The initiative served as a model for other leprosy-affected communities, demonstrating that impactful change is possible through collaborative efforts.

Conclusion:  Mr. Someshwar Dubey’s leadership in organizing the cleanliness drive at Gandhi Gram Ashram highlighted the importance of community involvement in overcoming local challenges. His approach underscored the value of self-reliance and collective action, showing that even the most marginalized groups can make meaningful progress when united by a common purpose. This intervention not only enhanced the physical conditions of the Ashram but also strengthened the residents’ resolve to maintain a dignified and healthy living environment.

On 1st October, a detailed inspection was carried out by the authorities of the Municipal Corporation of Bhimavaram, Andhra Pradesh, revealing critical issues in local infrastructure that were directly affecting the residents’ quality of life. The inspection focused on several major areas, including drainage, electricity, and road conditions, all of which were found to be in need of urgent attention.

Key Findings and Challenges

1. Drainage Obstruction: The drainage systems were significantly obstructed by overgrown vegetation and accumulated debris. This blockage resulted in unsanitary conditions, posing health risks for the residents. The poor drainage infrastructure had led to stagnant water, which can be a breeding ground for various diseases and exacerbate sanitation challenges in the community.
2. Unreliable Electricity Supply: The electricity supply in the area was found to be inconsistent, further complicating the daily lives of the residents. This unreliability in electricity service impacted not only residential comfort but also limited the functionality of other critical services that rely on stable power.
3. Access to Clean Water: Access to clean and potable water was sporadic, adding to the daily hardships faced by the community. Inadequate water supply is a major concern in any community, as it affects health, sanitation, and overall quality of life.
4. Damaged Roads: The roads within the locality were in a state of disrepair, making transportation difficult and posing safety hazards, especially during the rainy season when potholes and uneven surfaces become even more problematic.

Community Engagement and Immediate Response

During the inspection, municipal officials engaged directly with the colony’s residents, enabling them to understand the specific challenges the community was facing. This direct interaction was instrumental in identifying actionable steps to address these pressing issues, which had long been overlooked. The government representatives committed to prioritizing these issues and addressing them promptly, which instilled a renewed sense of hope and reassurance among the residents.

Government Actions and Intervention

Following the inspection, the government took decisive actions to address the identified infrastructure issues. Some of the key steps included:

• Clearing Vegetation and Debris from Drainage Systems: Efforts were promptly initiated to clear the overgrown vegetation and debris from the drainage systems, improving sanitation and reducing health risks associated with stagnant water.
• Planning for Essential Service Enhancements: Plans were laid out for further improvements in essential services, which included stable electricity supply, consistent access to clean water, and the repair of damaged roads. These plans aim to bring long-term relief to the community.

Acknowledgment of Advocacy and Community Impact

The Andhra Pradesh Association of Leprosy-Affected (APAL), alongside community leaders, expressed their gratitude for the timely intervention by the government. Mr. Prakash and the APAL State Committee of Andhra Pradesh received special commendation for their persistent advocacy efforts, which were crucial in ensuring that the voices of the leprosy-affected community were heard and addressed.

Conclusion

The collaborative efforts between APAL, colony leaders, and the government mark a meaningful step toward improving living conditions for a historically marginalized community. The interventions not only addressed immediate infrastructure issues but also highlighted the power of community advocacy in driving positive change. This initiative represents a significant accomplishment in enhancing the well-being of the residents, setting a foundation for continued support and development in the area.

On the 28th of September 2024, Mr. Prakash, Treasurer of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL), in conjunction with leaders from various leprosy colonies in Bhimavaram, undertook an initiative to address the inadequate infrastructure in their communities. They presented a memorandum to the government authorities outlining the critical issues affecting their living conditions. The memorandum underscored the urgent requirement for enhanced drainage systems, consistent power supply, access to clean water, sanitation, and proper CC roads within the colonies. Recognizing the gravity of these issues, Mr. Prakash and the colony leaders advocated for immediate government intervention to improve the lives of people affected by leprosy in the area.

The authorities, including Mr. K. Ramachandra Reddy, Municipal Commissioner of Bhimavaram Municipality, sanitation officers, deputy engineer, electrical engineer, and water section officer, responded affirmatively and promptly by visiting the colonies (New Jyothi and Krupa Colonies) and surrounding areas to firsthand assess the situation. During their visit, they observed unhygienic drainage systems, irregular power and water supply, and the poor condition of the roads. The officials also engaged with the colony residents, discussing the daily challenges they faced and potential improvement solutions. Following a comprehensive assessment, the authorities assured the residents that improved living spaces and surroundings would be provided as soon as possible, instilling hope for a better quality of life among the colony’s inhabitants.

APAL expressed their sincere gratitude to the authorities for their immediate response and commitment to enhancing conditions in Bhimavaram’s leprosy colonies. Special recognition was extended to Mr. Prakash and the APAL State Committee of Andhra Pradesh, whose efforts were pivotal in realizing this success. Their dedication and perseverance culminated in a positive outcome, ensuring that the needs of the leprosy-affected community were acknowledged and addressed.

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.