NEWS & EVENTS

The APAL Executive Committee and the Sasakawa Health Foundation convened a productive meeting in Delhi on October 31, 2024, to discuss future activities and initiatives aimed at the socio-economic empowerment and welfare of persons affected by leprosy and their families. The session focused on strengthening ongoing support for the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL) and evaluating future plans to uplift leprosy-affected communities.

Both organizations expressed their satisfaction with the coordination and structure of the meeting. They commended APAL for its dedicated service to the leprosy community, noting the significant impact these efforts have had on the quality of life for affected individuals. APAL authorities, in turn, provided a comprehensive overview of the current situation within leprosy colonies, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by those affected by the disease and their families.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted a shared commitment to advancing the welfare of leprosy-affected persons through collaborative planning and continued support.

On 29^th October 2024, On the auspicious occasion of Deepawali, the APAL State Committee in Madhya Pradesh, in collaboration with the NGO Khushiyon Ke Pal, undertook the distribution of ration kits to 62 families affected by leprosy. The beneficiaries were associated with the Sant Dnyaneshwar Seva Samiti and Sai Ram Kusht Seva Samiti, both situated in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. This initiative was designed to foster joy and ensure that these marginalized families could celebrate the Festival of Lights with dignity and happiness.

The event was attended by colony residents and various dignitaries, including Sarang, the Secretary of APAL, as well as Raju Rathore and Gopal Shinde from the Sahayog Kusht Nivaran Sangh. Their participation significantly enhanced the occasion, as they not only distributed the kits but also engaged with the residents, thereby promoting a sense of community and inclusion. Such initiatives reflect the unwavering commitment of these organizations to uplift underprivileged sectors of society, ensuring that no individual is overlooked during the festive season.

On 29^th October 2024, The Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL), in collaboration with local donors, has taken meaningful steps to support families impacted by leprosy. Recently, the Tamil Nadu state committee, in partnership with generous contributors, distributed essential food grains to 55 families residing in the Mother Teresa Leprosy Colony in Vadathorasalur, Tamil Nadu. This initiative reflects APAL’s ongoing commitment to improving the lives of individuals affected by leprosy, ensuring they receive vital support during challenging times.

APAL extends heartfelt gratitude to the donors for their invaluable contributions, which have made a significant difference in the lives of these families. The organization also offers special thanks to Mr. A. Rajendiran, the State Coordinator of APAL, for his dedicated efforts in mobilizing and coordinating this initiative. His active involvement and commitment to the leprosy community have been instrumental in the success of this program. Through such collaborative efforts, APAL continues to foster hope, dignity, and empowerment among individuals affected by leprosy.

The State Committee of APAL (Association of People Affected by Leprosy) in Bihar, in collaboration with the Government, successfully organized a UDID (Unique Disability ID Card) camp on 25th October 2024 at Chauradano Block, East Champaran, Bihar. This initiative aimed to streamline the process of obtaining UDID cards, which serve as a vital tool for persons with disabilities to access various government benefits, schemes, and entitlements. The camp witnessed enthusiastic participation, ensuring that individuals affected by leprosy were able to apply for their UDID cards with ease.

APAL extends heartfelt gratitude to the Government for its valuable services and cooperation throughout the event. The smooth execution of the camp was made possible by the dedicated efforts of the Bihar State Committee of APAL. A special note of appreciation goes to Mr. Brij Kishore for his unwavering support and commitment to the welfare of persons affected by leprosy. His active involvement was instrumental in ensuring that the camp reached those in need, furthering APAL’s mission of empowering marginalized communities through improved access to essential services.

 On October 22, 2024, APAL, in collaboration with its State Committee in Telangana (SLAP_TS), made a significant impact in the lives of leprosy-affected families in Balaji Nagar Mother Teresa Leprosy Colony, Hyderabad. Under the leadership of State Coordinator Maniyada Ramesh and committee member K. Anusuya, the initiative aimed to provide essential support and care to those in need. The team distributed blankets to 25 families, ensuring warmth and comfort during the cooler months, which is particularly crucial for vulnerable populations.

In addition to the blankets, the team organized a heartfelt lunch for the families, serving delicious biriyani that not only nourished but also uplifted spirits. This gesture of kindness was met with gratitude and joy from the residents of the colony, fostering a sense of community and solidarity. APAL expresses its heartfelt thanks to the Telangana State Committee for their dedication and tireless efforts, with special recognition to Maniyada Ramesh and K. Anusuya for their unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of those affected by leprosy. Their contributions are a testament to the power of compassion and community action in making a difference.

On 22^nd October 2024, Mr. Ramavarai Sah, Joint Secretary of APAL, recently visited the Chanpatiya colony in Bihar to survey the living conditions in the area. What he discovered was deeply concerning. The colony, which consists of 45 houses, is predominantly in a state of disrepair. An alarming 35 of these homes have broken asbestos roofs, creating significant safety hazards for the residents. The dilapidated conditions highlight the urgent need for intervention, as families struggle to find adequate shelter in an environment that should be a source of security and comfort.

In light of these pressing issues, APAL is taking decisive action to support the community. Next month, we will be mobilizing resources to assist with the involvement of investors, facilitated by the generous efforts of Sister Alexandra. This initiative is designed to enhance the living conditions for families in Chanpatiya by supplying safer and more durable roofing materials. Sister Alexandra’s support is not only pivotal in securing the necessary funds but also symbolizes a collective commitment to rebuilding this community. Through these efforts, we aim to restore a sense of security and dignity to the residents, helping them regain hope for a better future.

On 17th October 2024, During a ceremony, Mr. Jawahar Ram Paswan, Vice President of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL), honoured Dr. Sahir Pal, the Civil Surgeon of East Singhbhum, along with District Leprosy Prevention Officer Dr. Mrityunjay Dhauriya and District Leprosy Consultant Dr. Rajiv Lochan Mahato.

This recognition also included the participation of heads of various leprosy ashrams. The medical professionals were acknowledged for their exceptional efforts in healthcare services and were presented with plants as a symbol of appreciation. Their noteworthy initiative in ensuring the regular operation of a Mobile Medical Unit, which provides essential medical care to patients residing in leprosy ashrams every Thursday, was particularly highlighted. The ceremony underscored the positive impact of their dedication and emphasized the importance of such initiatives in enhancing the well-being of people affected by leprosy.

On 17th October 2024, Maya Ranavare participated in a working session with ILEP (International Federation of Anti-Leprosy Associations) member organizations in Ethiopia, along with the German Leprosy and Tuberculosis Relief Association and The Leprosy Mission. This educational meeting aimed to review, discuss, and align the activities implemented by both organizations toward combating leprosy and its associated challenges.

During the session, Maya contributed by engaging in discussions on best practices, monitoring ongoing projects, and identifying areas for improvement. The collaborative nature of the meeting highlighted the importance of multi-organizational efforts to enhance healthcare delivery, promote social inclusion, and reduce the stigma associated with leprosy. Her involvement reflects a commitment to strengthening partnerships and supporting the global goal of eliminating leprosy through awareness, early intervention, and effective program implementation.

On 16th October 2024. the State Committee of APAL (Association of People Affected by Leprosy) in Bihar recently conducted a humanitarian initiative at Gandhi Gram Kushth Ashram, Motipur, Muzaffarpur. The organization distributed essential general medicines to individuals affected by leprosy residing in the ashram. This outreach reflects APAL’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of marginalized communities, particularly those battling leprosy, who often face social and medical neglect.

The provision of these medicines is crucial, as many residents struggle with limited access to healthcare. Beyond managing the effects of leprosy, the initiative aimed to address common ailments, thereby ensuring a holistic approach to their health. The gesture was well-received by the ashram’s residents, reinforcing the importance of community support in empowering individuals affected by this stigmatizing disease. APAL’s efforts not only provided medical relief but also brought hope, dignity, and solidarity to the people of Gandhi Gram Kushth Ashram.

 On 14th October 2024, Maya Ranavare, President of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL), recently participated in the ILEP Advisory Panel Meeting, in Ethiopia where she contributed valuable insights representing the voice of individuals impacted by leprosy. The meeting facilitated strategic discussions among international stakeholders working toward the elimination of leprosy-related discrimination and the enhancement of healthcare access. Maya’s participation underscored APAL’s commitment to amplifying the concerns of those directly affected and promoting inclusive policies in global forums.

During her visit, Maya also engaged with the Ethiopian National Association of Persons Affected by Leprosy (ENAPAL). This interaction provided a unique opportunity to exchange experiences, share best practices, and strengthen collaboration between the organizations. The organizations emphasized the importance of empowering individuals affected by leprosy through community-led initiatives and capacity-building programs. Their discussions laid the foundation for deeper partnership in advocacy efforts across borders.

In addition, Maya had a meaningful meeting with Dr. Alice Cruz, the former UN Special Rapporteur on the Elimination of Discrimination against Persons Affected by Leprosy and Family Members. As a gesture of appreciation and to highlight APAL’s achievements, she presented Dr. Cruz with APAL’s Annual Report for 2023-2024. The report encapsulates the organization’s efforts, challenges, and successes over the past year, reflecting its dedication to improving the lives of people affected by leprosy through advocacy, education, and outreach. This interaction reinforced the shared commitment to advancing human rights and ensuring no one is left behind in the fight against leprosy.