NEWS & EVENTS

On 24^th August 2024, In a joint endeavor, the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL) and Brighter Future Development Trust (BFDT) convened a significant gathering at the Jagannath Leprosy Colony in the Mancheswar Industrial Area, Bhubaneswar, Khordha, Odisha. The assembly facilitated the convergence of representatives from both organizations and members of the leprosy-affected community to deliberate on prospective collaborative endeavors aimed at ameliorating the circumstances of those impacted by leprosy in Odisha. The congregation provided a forum for comprehensive discourse on the existing challenges confronting the leprosy-affected populace in the locale, particularly the substandard living conditions and dearth of adequate assistance.

Throughout the meeting, participants recounted their experiences and articulated apprehensions regarding the severe plight of the leprosy-affected community. The deliberations underscored the necessity of implementing a rights-based approach to redress these concerns and ensure that the voices of those affected are heeded by the pertinent governmental authorities. Both APAL and BFDT affirmed their dedication to advocating for improved social protection, healthcare, and well-being provisions for the community. The collaborative assembly culminated with a consensus on the significance of perpetuating their collective efforts to effect substantial change, with an emphasis on empowering the community and safeguarding their rights in all forthcoming undertakings.

On the 22nd of August 2024, the State Committee of APAL in Telangana, in collaboration with the Society for Rural Development (SRD), organized a significant distribution event to provide support to leprosy-affected families in Shantinagar Colony. Essential commodities, including ration supplies, were disbursed to 25 families residing in the colony, ensuring their access to necessary resources for daily sustenance. The distribution, conducted on a Thursday, brought much-needed relief to the families, many of whom encounter persistent challenges due to their health conditions and the associated social stigma.

Mr. Ramesh, the State Coordinator of APAL in Telangana, actively participated in the distribution, representing SRD and ensuring the efficient and respectful handing over of supplies to each family. His efforts were warmly acknowledged by community members, who expressed gratitude to Mr. Ramesh and SRD for their unrelenting support. The event underscored the significance of collaboration between organizations and community leaders in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. APAL conveyed sincere appreciation to the representatives of SRD for their dedication to effecting a positive change in the lives of those impacted by leprosy.

APAL’s President, Maya Ranavare, recently led a delegation of APAL’s State Committee in Gujarat to the Commissioner of Health, Medical Services, Medical Education, and Research. During the visit, they engaged in a detailed discussion with the State Leprosy Officer, focusing on the ongoing social protection and welfare challenges faced by individuals affected by leprosy in the various colonies across Gujarat. This meeting was pivotal in addressing the gaps in support and highlighting the urgent need for enhanced welfare measures to improve the lives of these marginalized communities.

In addition to the official meetings, Maya Ranavare visited the Gandhi Leprosy Colony in Ahmedabad, where she spent time interacting with the residents. She engaged them in meaningful conversations about their rights as persons affected by leprosy, emphasizing the importance of a rights-based approach in advocating for their needs. Her discussions underscored the necessity of integrating these individuals into mainstream society, ensuring they live with dignity and access the same opportunities as others. Her visit served as both an inspiration and a call to action for the community to continue striving for their rightful place in society.

On India’s Independence Day 2024, APAL’s Coordinators and Executive Committee Members actively participated in the celebrations, marking the day with pride and purpose. The Government extended a warm invitation and a grand welcome to these leaders, acknowledging their dedication to the cause of people affected by leprosy. During the event, they delivered compelling speeches that highlighted the importance of freedom and dignity for those living with the challenges of leprosy. Their words resonated with the audience, emphasizing the need for continued efforts toward equality and respect for all.

APAL took this opportunity to congratulate Maniyada Ramesh, the State Coordinator in Telangana; Mr. Someswar Dubey, the State Coordinator in Bihar; Ms. Shyam Bhai, the State Coordinator in Chhattisgarh; and others for receiving recognition for their unwavering commitment and service. Their efforts have significantly contributed to the empowerment and betterment of individuals affected by leprosy, making them role models in their respective states.

On 12th August 2024, In a significant effort to support individuals affected by leprosy, APAL’s State Committee in Madhya Pradesh, in collaboration with Lepra Society, distributed Micro Cellular Rubber (MCR) Footwear to 26 persons at Raj Bhoj Colony and Anand Nagar Colony in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh. This initiative is part of an ongoing commitment to improving the health and well-being of those affected by leprosy, as MCR Footwear plays a crucial role in preventing foot ulcers and other complications that can arise due to the loss of sensation in the feet, a common issue among leprosy patients.

On behalf of the people affected by leprosy, APAL extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Lepra Society for their valuable and continuous services. Their collaboration and dedication have made a significant difference in the lives of many, ensuring that those often marginalized receive the care and support they need. This partnership exemplifies the power of working together to uplift and empower vulnerable communities.

On the 10th of August 2024, a significant event was held at Big Amberpet, which was organized by the Children of Deccan Foundation to support families affected by leprosy. Essential provisions, including groceries, were distributed to 100 families impacted by leprosy. Ms. Vaddepalli Vidhyavati Vijender Reddy, the Councillor, led this commendable effort and personally distributed the provisions to the beneficiaries. The event saw active participation from Nagalla Malkanna, the founder of the Children of Deccan Foundation, as well as Jinson and Hazel, who made valuable contributions to the program’s success.

During the event, the State Coordinator of APAL, Maniyada Ramesh, emphasized the crucial role that NGOs, such as the one led by Mr. Malkanna, play in aiding underprivileged families affected by leprosy. He appealed for sustained support for these vulnerable communities to enhance their quality of life. In response, Nagalla Malkanna expressed profound gratitude to his colleagues and volunteers for their unwavering support and commitment to this cause. The event marked a significant stride in providing much-needed assistance to those marginalized by society due to leprosy.

On the 9th of August 2024, a significant event took place at the Adilabad Tirupalli Leprosy Colony, where ulcer care kits and tubs were distributed among the residents. This endeavour was made possible through the joint efforts of NTPC and Lepra Society, which provided the necessary resources to enhance the health and well-being of individuals affected by leprosy within the colony.

The distribution was overseen by the State Coordinator of APAL, Mr. Maniyada Ramesh, who personally presented the kits and tubs to the residents. The compassionate gesture was warmly received, and the colony’s inhabitants conveyed their sincere gratitude to the officials of NTPC and Lepra Society for their ongoing support and care.

On the 9th of August 2024, a significant event occurred at the Adilabad Tirupalli Leprosy Colony. Essential items such as blankets, umbrellas, towels, and ration essentials were distributed to the residents affected by leprosy. This initiative was orchestrated by the APAL and the APAL’s state committee (SLAP-TS), with the active cooperation and support of Mr. Bommishetty Shyambabu. Mr. Maniyada Ramesh, the State Coordinator of APAL, also played a pivotal role in the event.

During the distribution, Mr. Ramesh emphasized the severe lack of infrastructure development within the colony. He expressed concern over inadequate facilities, including the absence of proper drainage systems, reliable water supply, water taps, CC roads, and proper waste management systems. The colony’s residents are also facing significant challenges due to the poor condition of their houses and bathrooms.

On behalf of the people affected by leprosy residing in the colony, Mr. Ramesh urged government officials and public representatives to provide these basic facilities immediately. He emphasized the need for improved infrastructure to ensure that the leprosy-affected individuals, who are already living in poverty, are not further marginalized. The call to action is a plea for the dignity and well-being of the residents, who deserve a better standard of living and the basic amenities that many take for granted.

APAL expressed gratitude to Mr. Bommishetty Shyambabu for his invaluable kind support to the neediest people affected by the disease of leprosy and their families. Special thanks were also extended to Mr. Ramesh for his dedicated services to leprosy communities.

APAL’s President, Maya Ranavare, recently met with the District Leprosy Officer of Sangli to address a pressing issue faced by persons affected by leprosy in the region. The discussion centred on the challenges these individuals encounter when attempting to obtain disability certificates from the government. Despite their eligibility, many struggle with bureaucratic hurdles and delays, making it difficult for them to access the benefits and support they are entitled to Maya Ranavare emphasized the need for a streamlined, efficient, and user-friendly process to ensure that all eligible individuals can obtain their certificates without unnecessary complications. She proposed that the government should implement a more systematic approach, possibly involving better coordination between medical professionals, government offices, and community organizations, to ensure that these certificates are issued promptly and fairly.

 The District Leprosy Officer acknowledged the concerns and expressed a willingness to work towards simplifying the process, recognizing the importance of empowering persons affected by leprosy through easier access to their rights.

Maya Ranavare also presented the District Leprosy Officer of Sangli with APAL’s annual report book for 2023-2024. This report provides a comprehensive overview of APAL’s efforts and achievements over the past year, highlighting the organization’s dedication to improving the lives of persons affected by leprosy. By sharing this report, Maya aimed to further inform and engage the District Leprosy Officer in APAL’s ongoing initiatives, fostering greater collaboration in addressing the challenges faced by the leprosy-affected community.

On the 7th of August 2024, the State Committee of APAL in Bihar held a significant meeting with Shriman Ganga Prasad ji, the former Governor of Meghalaya, at his residence in Patna. The purpose of the meeting was to request his assistance in organizing a discussion with His Excellency, the Governor of Bihar. The main agenda was to advocate for the expansion of the Bihar Satabadi Kushtha Kalyan Yojana, a welfare program designed to enhance the lives of individuals affected by leprosy.

Understanding the significance of this matter, Shri Ganga Prasad ji facilitated the request and assured the committee that the Governor of Bihar would meet with them within the next 1-2 days. This meeting marks a crucial milestone in the ongoing endeavours to secure more comprehensive support and resources for the leprosy-affected community in Bihar.