Leprosy is curable. Social mainstreaming of cured leprosy persons is our national responsibility. The World Health Organisation and the World Bank should come forward to see the pathetic condition of the leprosy patients, said Swami Japanand, head of the Ramakrishna Seva Ashram and Vivekananda Medical Mission, Banglore, on the occasion of Martyrdom Day of Mahatma Gandhi and Anti-Leprosy Day in Puri.
District Leprosy Officer Indira Mohapatra chaired.
An oath taking was conducted not to discriminate against the leprosy patients.
Chief guest Swami Japanand distributed blankets among poor leprosy patients on behalf of Ramkrishna Mission and Satyasai Seva Ashram.
DSSO of SSEPD Sanyas Kumar Behera sensitized the people about the schemes and programmes of the Government for livelihood of cured leprosy person.
At the beginning, approved vocalist of All India Radio Meghamala Panda presented Ram dhun and dedicated the opening song to Lord Jagannath. District leprosy consultant Debadurlabha Nayak joined as the chief speaker.
Little GEMS School teacher Deepali Sahoo shared the objectives of the function. Bhagban Pradhan, life member of HKNS, proposed the vote of thanks.