The Department of Dermatology at AIIMS Bhopal on Tuesday commemorated World Leprosy Day with a series of enlightening activities aimed at raising awareness, dispelling myths, and fostering a sense of community. The event served as a platform to underscore the importance of eradicating stigma associated with leprosy while emphasizing the need for comprehensive outreach efforts, especially in rural areas.
The occasion was graced by Prof (Dr) Ajai Singh, Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Bhopal, who commended the department's unwavering dedication and compassionate care towards patients. Dr. Singh urged dermatologists to intensify their outreach activities, particularly in rural areas, to combat stigma and ensure equitable access to healthcare services. He expressed optimism that the department would strive towards achieving national standards in patient care and advocacy. Dr. Singh also presented prizes to the winners of various competitions held in conjunction with World Leprosy Day, recognizing their commitment to raising awareness and promoting inclusivity. The ceremony was further enriched by the presence of Dr. Devendra Singh Tomar, WHO State Coordinator for the Society of Neglected Tropical Diseases, and Dr. Nidhi Sharma, Deputy Director (Leprosy) at the National Health Mission state branch.
Both esteemed guests shed light on ongoing initiatives and emphasized the pivotal role of public health interventions in addressing the challenges posed by leprosy. As a token of appreciation for their dedicated contributions, key figures in the fight against neglected tropical diseases were felicitated during the ceremony, underscoring the collective effort required to overcome barriers and achieve meaningful progress.
Dr. Prashansa Jaiswal, Associate Professor, Dermatology, extended a warm welcome to the gathering, setting the tone for an engaging and insightful discourse on leprosy awareness and advocacy.
