Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 31 January 2025
In observance of Anti-Leprosy Day, a function was held at the Auditorium of Andaman and Nicobar Islands Institute of Medical Sciences (ANIIMS) on January 30, 2025. The event saw the participation of key officials, with Dr. Siddaraju, CMO (NFSG) and Director of Health Services In Charge, gracing the occasion as the chief guest.
During his address, Dr. Siddaraju focused on the social implications of leprosy and the current scenario of the disease in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He appealed to the audience to spread scientific facts about leprosy and urged them to help eliminate misconceptions surrounding it. This year’s theme for the SPARSH Leprosy Awareness Campaign, “Together let us raise awareness, dispel misconceptions & ensure that no one affected by Leprosy is left behind,” emphasized collective efforts to raise awareness and eradicate the stigma.
The event was attended by a range of healthcare professionals, including the Deputy Director (Leprosy), Dr. B. Ajit Kumar, along with Programme Officers, the Principal of Nursing School, Additional Medical Superintendent of ANIIMS, students from the ANM School, and staff from various departments of the Directorate of Health Services.
Dr. B. Ajit Kumar welcomed the gathering and delivered a speech highlighting the importance of leprosy treatment and addressing the social stigma and discrimination often faced by individuals affected by the disease. He also administered the oath on Anti-Leprosy Day, reaffirming the collective commitment to fight against leprosy and its associated stigma.
The observance of Anti-Leprosy Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to raise awareness, ensure proper treatment, and combat the misconceptions that surround leprosy in society.