On 13th February 2024, The closure of the Leprosy Eradication Fortnight was celebrated with grandiosity in Pedda Amberpet Shantinagar Colony, attended by the State Health Director, Dr. Ravindra Naik, as the chief guest. The program was led by T.V. Venkateshwarlu, Vice Chairman of the Hindu Kusht Nivaran Sangh, and many medical officers were present.
During the event, Dr. Naik highlighted that leprosy is not a difficult disease and can be treated with medicines if detected early. The awareness program, initiated on January 30, lasted for 15 days, and Dr. Naik suggested that it should be continued persistently, not just for a limited time. He pledged to work tirelessly towards making India leprosy-free by 2027, as envisioned by Mahatma Gandhi. Additionally, TV Venkateshwarlu, Vice Chairman of the Hindu Kusht Nivaran Sangh, urged the public to treat leprosy patients with compassion and extend support in every way possible. Dr. John Babu, Joint Director of Leprosy, emphasized that eradicating leprosy is possible only with awareness and that more initiatives to raise public awareness will be taken. Medicines for the disease will be provided free of cost in all primary centres. The event culminated with Health Director Dr. Ravindra Naik distributing blankets to leprosy patients.
The program was attended by Ranga Reddy, Hyderabad Additional DMHOs Dr. Aruna and Dr. Nirmala Prabhavathi, Sivananda Home CEO Dr. Ananthar Reddy, State President of SLAP (Society of Leprosy Affected Persons) Maniyada Ramesh, DPMOs, APMOs, and residents.
