Odisha Observes Leprosy Eradication Day 2026 with Renewed Commitment to Elimination
Bhubaneswar: The Health and Family Welfare Department of Odisha marked Leprosy Eradication Day 2026 with a state‑level program at the Joint Health Directorate conference hall, reaffirming its pledge to eliminate the disease through awareness, early detection, and social cooperation.
Health Secretary Ashwathi S presided over the event as chief guest, alongside senior officials including Dr. Bijay Kumar Mahapatra, Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, and Dr. Pradeep Guru.
Doctors and grassroots health workers were honored for their outstanding contributions.
Dr. Divyendu Kumar Sahu, Dr. Manish Kumar Sahu, and Dr. Tapaswini Mishra received recognition for excellence in treatment, while ASHA workers Pratima Mallick, Rajani Bhoi, Manjulata Lenka, Y Manju, and Manorama Mallick were awarded for their dedicated service.
The state reported 7,349 leprosy cases in 2024–25, with a remarkable 92% reduction in Grade‑2 cases, now down to 106.
However, challenges remain, with 395 child patients still affected. Rehabilitation efforts have been significant, with 6,978 leprosy‑disabled patients undergoing reconstructive surgeries, including 2,467 surgeries performed by Dr. Lakshman Kumar Karmi.
Participants took the “Sparsh Leprosy Awareness” oath, pledging to fight stigma and discrimination against patients.
Officials emphasised that early detection and community support are key to achieving complete eradication.
Odisha’s progress reflects both medical dedication and social commitment, but authorities stressed that sustained awareness campaigns and treatment initiatives remain essential to achieve a leprosy‑free state.
