How is the Maha govt planning to tackle leprosy eradication?
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Synopsis
In a decisive move, Maharashtra's government is establishing a state-level committee to enhance the leprosy eradication program. This initiative aims to strengthen detection, treatment, and rehabilitation efforts, ensuring that no patient is left behind. The committee will involve various stakeholders and is set for impactful quarterly assessments.
Key Takeaways
- The Maharashtra government is forming a state-level committee for leprosy eradication.
- The committee will consist of experts, doctors, and NGOs.
- It will report to the government every three months for effective implementation.
- The current subsidy for treatment beds may increase to Rs 6,000.
- A new leprosy treatment regimen will begin on April 1, 2025.
Mumbai, July 15 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Public Health Minister Prakash Abitkar declared on Tuesday that a state-level committee will be established to ensure the successful execution of the leprosy eradication initiative.
This newly formed committee will comprise experts, medical professionals, NGOs, and individuals actively engaged in this sector. It will present its findings to the state government every three months, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of the leprosy eradication strategy.
The minister stated, “An independent committee led by the Health Services Commissioner will also be formed to oversee the leprosy eradication efforts at the state level. This committee will establish the operational methods for identifying patients in urban, rural, and school settings, along with their treatment and rehabilitation, guiding the efforts across Maharashtra.”
During the meeting, NGOs urged for an increase in subsidies. Currently, there are 2,764 beds available across 12 voluntary hospitals treating leprosy in the state, with 1,825 beds authorized in 11 rehabilitation institutions. Currently, hospital-based facilities receive a subsidy of Rs 2,200 per bed each month, while rehabilitation facilities get Rs 2,000. The Public Health Department has drafted a proposal to raise this subsidy to Rs 6,000 per bed and has forwarded it to the Finance Department for review by the State Cabinet.
Minister Abitkar emphasized that the leprosy eradication program should be pursued with greater commitment as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ambitious initiative.
“The Health Department must concentrate on the three essential pillars of leprosy: detection, treatment, and eradication. We should strive to reach the maximum number of patients through ASHA workers, school health check-ups, and other health personnel,” he added.
This announcement is pivotal, especially as the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched a new three-drug regimen for leprosy effective from April 1, 2025. This updated regimen aims to hasten the leprosy eradication process in India by 2027, three years ahead of the Sustainable Development Goals.
In other news, Water Supply Minister Gulabrao Patil directed that proposals for both the Ambadi Scheme and the Shivna Takli Medium Project should be submitted to guarantee consistent and sufficient water supply in Kannad city.
In a meeting at the Mantralaya, discussions focused on enhancing water supply through the Shivna Takli project rather than the Ambadi water supply scheme under the Urban Upliftment Mahaabhiyan.
MLA Sanjana Jadhav, former Union Minister Raosaheb Danve, Principal Secretary of the Water Supply Department Sanjay Khandare, Member Secretary of the Maharashtra Jeevan Authority Ranga Naik, and other senior officials attended the meeting.
Minister Patil clarified that both proposals need to be presented to the government, taking into account the increasing demands of the citizens of Kannad city for suitable and sustainable water sources.
Point of View
I believe the Maharashtra government's initiative to establish a committee for leprosy eradication is a commendable step towards addressing public health challenges. By involving diverse stakeholders, including experts and NGOs, this approach not only demonstrates transparency but also emphasizes the importance of collaboration in tackling health crises. The commitment to quarterly evaluations will ensure accountability and adaptability in the execution of this crucial program.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the newly formed committee?
The committee aims to effectively implement the leprosy eradication program in Maharashtra, ensuring thorough monitoring and quarterly evaluations.
Who will be part of this committee?
The committee will include experts, doctors, NGOs, and individuals working in the field of leprosy.
What are the current subsidy rates for leprosy treatment beds?
Currently, hospital-based institutions receive Rs 2,200 per bed per month, while rehabilitation institutions get Rs 2,000.
What new changes are being introduced in leprosy treatment?
A new three-drug regimen for leprosy will be implemented starting April 1, 2025, aiming for eradication by 2027.
How will the government ensure patients are reached effectively?
The government plans to utilize ASHA workers, school health check-ups, and other health personnel to maximize patient outreach.
