On the 7th of October 2024, Mrs. Maya Ranavare had the distinguished privilege of serving as the chief guest at the 150-year celebration of The Leprosy Mission (TLM) in Maharashtra. This significant event, hosted at the historic HIL project, brought together prominent dignitaries from Maharashtra and Karnataka, underscoring TLM’s pivotal role in combatting leprosy in India. Mrs. Ranavare’s presence underscored her dedication to health initiatives and advocacy for the well-being of communities affected by leprosy. In her address, she lauded TLM’s relentless efforts over the past 150 years, highlighting the remarkable accomplishments that have positively impacted numerous lives and advanced leprosy awareness, treatment, and rehabilitation.

The event was graced by key TLM members and government officials, including the Additional Joint Secretary of Maharashtra and Dr. Kanule, whose collective support has been instrumental in advancing the mission’s objectives. Senior TLM leaders, Ms. Tina and Dr. Jaya Deepa, also played a pivotal role in the festivities, showcasing the organization’s extensive influence and sharing compelling narratives of resilience and recovery among patients. Their presence alongside the TLM teams from Karnataka and Maharashtra symbolized a unified front, collaborating closely with government representatives to reaffirm their dedication to eliminating leprosy and ensuring the social and economic inclusion of affected individuals.