NEWS & EVENTS

“Inclusive Futures: APAL–NHRC Joint Consultation on Leprosy Rights”

On 1st May 2025, the APAL State Committee in Jharkhand, in collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), organized a pivotal meeting at the Circuit House Auditorium in Jharkhand. The session was held under the leadership of Dr. Pradeep Kumar Nayak, Special Monitor (Leprosy) from NHRC, New Delhi, and brought together a wide range of government stakeholders to deliberate on the rights and welfare of persons affected by leprosy. The meeting witnessed active participation from departments such as Health, Education, Social Security, Social Welfare, JSLPS (Jharkhand State Livelihood Promotion Society), and the Welfare Department, alongside APAL representatives and members from local leprosy ashrams. The primary focus of the dialogue was the recognition and realization of personal, social, economic, fundamental, and political rights of leprosy-affected individuals.

Dr. Pradeep Kumar Nayak passionately advocated for the complete inclusion of persons affected by leprosy into mainstream society. He underscored that every individual impacted by the disease has an equal right to dignity and opportunity, just like any other citizen. Dr. Nayak issued a clarion call to all attending departments to integrate efforts, dismantle discriminatory practices, and dispel societal myths around leprosy. He also issued specific, actionable guidelines to foster departmental coordination, with a shared vision to achieve a leprosy-free India by 2027. His address was a powerful reminder of the systemic changes needed to uphold the rights and humanity of those affected by leprosy.

Civil Surgeon Dr. Sahir Paul also addressed the audience and played a critical role in clarifying public misconceptions surrounding the disease. He explained that leprosy is a bacterial infection that can be completely cured with timely, appropriate treatment, emphasizing that it is not highly contagious. Dr. Paul reassured the gathering that all health facilities in the district are well-prepared to conduct screenings and offer necessary medical interventions. He further informed that every leprosy-affected individual in the district has now been issued a disability certificate, empowering them to access various government schemes and entitlements. This milestone reflects the district’s commitment to improving the quality of life, social security, and welfare of persons affected by leprosy.

On 27^th April 2025, The State Committee of APAL (Association of People Affected by Leprosy) in Telangana is actively engaged in addressing the pressing issues faced by persons affected by leprosy and individuals with disabilities across the state. As part of these ongoing efforts, Mr. Maniyada Ramesh, the State Coordinator of APAL Telangana, recently participated in a significant meeting at the office of the Director for Disabled Welfare. The meeting included the participation of various state-level leaders representing disability organisations, reflecting a collective commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable communities.

During the meeting, Mr. Ramesh brought attention to the critical challenges being faced by persons affected by leprosy in Telangana. He particularly emphasised the urgent need for the issuance of Unique Disability Identity (UDID) cards, access to housing schemes, and the provision of customised mobile footwear. He informed the officials that nearly 90% of persons affected by leprosy in the state are still awaiting their UDID cards, which are vital for availing of numerous government welfare schemes and entitlements. Mr. Ramesh earnestly requested the authorities to take immediate steps to resolve this long-standing issue.

The meeting was chaired by Director B. Shailaja and Chairman Veerayya, who attentively listened to the concerns raised and acknowledged the need for swift and effective solutions. The APAL State Committee remains hopeful that the Department of Disabled Welfare will act promptly to ensure that all eligible individuals affected by leprosy receive their UDID cards and other necessary support without further delay.

On 23^rd April 2025, The Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL) continues to play a significant role in advocating for the rights, welfare, and health of individuals affected by leprosy across India. As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance outreach and service delivery, APAL’s State Committee in Telangana recently met with the State Leprosy Officer, Dr. John Babu, at his office. The meeting focused on a critical issue that has long hindered effective leprosy control — the presence of hidden cases that remain undetected and unreported.

During the discussion, the APAL Telangana team emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive re-survey across the state. They highlighted how updated and complete data would significantly improve strategic planning and the delivery of health services tailored to leprosy-affected individuals. Dr. John Babu responded positively to the concerns raised and acknowledged the importance of such an initiative. He expressed his willingness to collaborate closely with APAL and assured full support from the state health department. Dr. Babu also conveyed his appreciation for APAL’s work and reiterated his commitment to working together in a collaborative mode to achieve the shared goal of eliminating leprosy and addressing the needs of those affected.

On 23^rd April 2025, Team of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL), along with the APAL Telangana State Committee, recently conducted a visit to the Sivananda Rehabilitation Center located in Kukatpally, Hyderabad. During the visit, the team had the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with senior surgeon Dr. Ananth Reddy. Their conversation focused on the latest advancements in leprosy treatment and physiotherapy techniques, offering valuable insights to further enhance the care and rehabilitation of individuals affected by leprosy.

As part of their outreach efforts, the APAL team also facilitated the referral of a woman affected by leprosy who was in urgent need of medical attention. Thanks to the prompt and compassionate response of the Sivananda Rehabilitation Center, she was successfully admitted and is now receiving the necessary care.

APAL extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Sivananda Rehabilitation Center for their warm hospitality, responsiveness, and steadfast dedication to supporting people impacted by leprosy. This collaboration is a testament to the shared commitment towards improving health outcomes and fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for affected communities. The visit was attended by Ms. Maya Ranavare, President of APAL; Mr. Prakash Done, Treasurer of APAL; and Mr. Maniyada Ramesh, APAL’s State Coordinator for Telangana, along with other team members

On 7^th April 2025, The State Committee of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL) in Maharashtra, in collaboration with the Maharashtra Kusht Pidit Sanghatana, has been actively working to highlight the concerns and challenges faced by people affected by leprosy in the state. As part of their advocacy efforts, the committee recently met with Madam Sana Malik, Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Trombay, Mumbai, at her office.

During this meeting, they submitted a formal memorandum addressing critical issues such as the rehabilitation of individuals living in leprosy colonies, access to government schemes, and the need for sustainable livelihood and educational opportunities for their children.

The memorandum emphasized that 28 leprosy colonies in Maharashtra still lack access to railway services, while 2 colonies are situated within forest areas. Out of these, 23 colonies are on government land, and the committee requested the MLA’s support in initiating land regularization and redevelopment efforts. The delegation also highlighted the need to include leprosy-affected individuals under the ₹6,000 per person Self-Employment Scheme, ensuring fair representation for those residing in independent colonies. Additionally, they urged for better access to quality education and higher education opportunities for children from these communities to ensure a more dignified and self-reliant future. Maya Ranavare President Apal India, Rasul Mullah and Jitendiran from the state committee and Maharashtra Kusht Pidit Sanghatana and team have participated.

On the occasion of World Health Day on 7th April 2025, APAL’s State Committee of Delhi organized a special program in Tahirpur Leprosy Colony, where MCR slippers and spectacles were distributed to persons affected by leprosy. This impactful initiative was held in collaboration with the District Leprosy Officer and the State Leprosy Officer of Delhi, aiming to promote health and well-being with a focus on mobility and vision care for the residents.

The success of the event was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Mr. Vijay Kumar, APAL’s State Coordinator, whose unwavering commitment to the welfare of the leprosy-affected community played a vital role in ensuring the program’s effectiveness and inclusivity.

APAL (Association of People Affected by Leprosy) is a national organization committed to advocating for the rights, dignity, and inclusion of people affected by leprosy in India. It works to address stigma, ensure access to healthcare, education, and livelihoods, and promote social and economic empowerment.

The APAL State Committee in Maharashtra actively supports these efforts by collaborating with local communities and authorities to implement welfare schemes and raise awareness about leprosy-related issues.

Recently, MLA Manisha Chowdhary visited the Borivali Leprosy Colony in Mumbai and interacted with residents to understand their challenges. She discussed housing schemes, especially concerning the Dahisar Leprosy Colony, emphasizing the need for inclusive development. Maya Ranavare, President of APAL, along with Rasul Mullah, Jitendiran, and the Maharashtra Kusht Pidit Sanghatana team, also participated, reinforcing collective efforts to improve the lives of those affected by leprosy

On April 3rd, 2025 (Thursday), the APAL State Committee in Telangana, in collaboration with the Hill of Hope Foundation, organized a medical camp at the Shanthinagar Leprosy Colony. The camp provided free medical check-ups and distributed medicines to the residents, aiming to support the health and well-being of the leprosy-affected community.

Dr. Anantharam, along with Maniyada. Ramesh APAL State Coordinators in Telangana and M. Samuel, played key roles in coordinating the event. The colony’s president, M. Samuel, and secretary, Sk. Rahemathulla, also actively participated in the program, ensuring smooth execution and encouraging community involvement.

On April 3, 2025, an eye check-up camp was organized at Vinoba Ashram and Birsa Ashram in collaboration with Trinetram Eye Hospital. The camp was led by Mr. Jawahar Ram Paswan.

During the camp, a large number of individuals underwent eye examinations and received assessments regarding their eye health. Those identified as needing surgery were registered for further treatment. Eye surgeries have been scheduled for April 24, 2025.

The success of this camp was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Ram Manjhi, Gauri Behera, and Suru Bhagat. Their active participation and support played a crucial role in the smooth execution of the initiative.

The objective of this initiative was to raise awareness about eye health within the community and to ensure timely access to necessary medical care. We express our sincere gratitude to Trinetram Eye Hospital and all supporters for their commendable efforts in making this camp a success.

On 3rd April 2025, the State Committee of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL) in Jharkhand conducted a field visit to Mahatma Gandhi Cast Colony in Baljoria, Dhanbad and Prem Nagar Leprosy Colony in Saharpura, Sindri. The visit was led by Representative Madhusudan Tiwari, with the core objective of understanding the ground-level issues being faced by the leprosy-affected residents and evaluating the effectiveness of ongoing government welfare schemes.

A significant focus during the visit was placed on the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), a central housing scheme aimed at ensuring “Housing for All”. The APAL team interacted with residents, listened to their concerns, and assessed the housing conditions of the families living in these colonies. Based on these interactions and site inspections, a preliminary list of eligible families is being compiled.

This list will be submitted to the relevant government authorities, ensuring that the identified families are included in the PMAY beneficiary list and can avail permanent housing. APAL’s initiative reflects its continued commitment to uplifting the lives of people affected by leprosy, advocating for their rights, and ensuring access to basic needs like safe and dignified housing. This visit marks another important step in bridging the gap between marginalized communities and government support systems.