On Mahatma Gandhi’s martyrdom which is observed as Anti-Leprosy Day, Sasakawa-India Leprosy Foundation organized “SAMVAAD” – An initiative to reach out to persons affected by leprosy & their families

Indore: Sasakawa-IndiaLeprosy Foundation(S-ILF), an organisation dedicated to the socio-economic empowerment of persons affected by leprosy and their families organized “Samvaad” on this Anti-Leprosy Day.

This unique initiative is an endeavour to engage in continued dialogue with the people living in leprosy colonies of Madhya Pradesh in order to understand the problems and issues faced and ensure collective and collaborative solutions.

Dr Vivek Lal, CEO, Sasakawa-India Leprosy Foundationoutlined that this initiative will help to further strengthen S-ILF’s efforts to mainstream persons affected by leprosy & their families.

“Samvaad” was done online in the presence of Mrs Syeda Imam Bilgrami, a renowned author and film-maker and the recipient of Indira Super Achiever Award.

Speaking on the occasion, Mrs. Syeda Imam Bilgrami said, “Samvaad is designed so that we can reach out to each and every member living in leprosy colonies. This initiative will help to bring S-ILF closer to the beneficiaries residing in marginalized leprosy colonies and could be the key to ensuring success of the Foundation’s livelihood and education initiatives for persons affected by leprosy and their families.”

On the occasion, Mr Sarang Gayadhane, Secretary, Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL) said, “Sasakawa-India Leprosy Foundation has always worked for the betterment of leprosy affected persons and their families. We look forward to working closely with the Foundation to provide a dignified life to those affected by leprosy & their families”.

Mr. Tarun Das Chairman, Sasakawa-India Leprosy Foundation (S-ILF) reaffirmed the commitment of the organization to further increase the opportunities for persons affected by leprosy and their families. He said, “We will keep expanding our horizon to cater to the most marginalized members of the society and seek partnerships to work collaboratively for the socio-economic development of those affected by leprosy & their families. “

‘Samvaad’ is an initiative of Sasakawa-India Leprosy Foundation to reach out to leprosy colonies across the country, in order to understand the problems and look for collaborative solutions for people living in marginalized leprosy colonies.

A day before the event a drawing competition was organized by Sasakawa-India Leprosy Foundation at Sai Ramavtar Kushth Seva Samiti, Banganga, Indore, Madhya Pradesh to pay tribute to the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on his death anniversary which is observed as Anti-Leprosy Day in India.