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India's Free Leprosy Treatment Drive Aims for Zero Transmission by 2027

The Indian government reaffirms its commitment to a leprosy-free India through the National Leprosy Eradication Programme, providing free diagnosis and multi-drug therapy. The nation achieved official elimination as a public health problem in 2005, with a current prevalence rate of 0.57 per 10,000 population. The programme now targets "Zero Transmission, Zero Leprosy" by 2027, focusing on early detection and stigma reduction. Services include free assistive devices, reconstructive surgery, and a welfare allowance for patients.

Key Points: India's Free Leprosy Diagnosis & Treatment for Leprosy-Free Goal

  • Free diagnosis & treatment at govt facilities
  • Target: Zero Transmission by 2027
  • Prevalence rate at 0.57 per 10,000
  • Services include surgery & welfare allowance
2 min read

Free diagnosis, treatment ensuring a leprosy-free India: Govt

India provides free leprosy diagnosis & multi-drug therapy nationwide, targeting zero transmission by 2027 under the National Leprosy Eradication Programme.

"Let us work together to eliminate stigma and ensure dignity and care for all. - Health Ministry"

New Delhi, Jan 30

Free diagnosis and multi-drug treatment at public health hospitals is ensuring that India remains leprosy-free, said the government on Friday.

National Leprosy Day in India is observed annually on January 30, coinciding with the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, to honour his work with those affected by the disease.

"Under the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP), India continues its efforts towards a Leprosy-Free India, ensuring free diagnosis, treatment, and care services at government health facilities nationwide," the Health Ministry posted on social media platform X.

"Let us work together to eliminate stigma and ensure dignity and care for all," it added.

Leprosy, also known as Hansen disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused mainly by a type of bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae. The disease affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, the mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, and the eyes.

Apart from the physical deformity, persons affected by leprosy also face stigmatisation and discrimination. However, leprosy is curable, and treatment in the early stages can prevent disability.

India achieved the official elimination of leprosy as a public health problem (less than 1 case per 10,000 population) nationally in December 2005.

As of March 2025, 31 states/UTs and 638 districts have achieved this, with a prevalence rate of 0.57 per 10,000.

The NLEP now targets "Zero Transmission, Zero Leprosy" by 2027 through early detection, free multidrug therapy (MDT), and stigma reduction.

Under the NLEP, the government provides services such as free diagnosis and treatment (MDT) at all government health facilities, microcellular rubber footwears for patients, free assistive devices for leprosy patients, self-care kits for patients with ulcers, and reconstructive surgery for Grade 2 deformities with a welfare allowance of Rs 12,000.

All services under NLEP are available free of cost at all government health facilities.

If left untreated, leprosy may cause progressive and permanent disabilities. The bacteria are transmitted via droplets from the nose and mouth during close and frequent contact with untreated cases.

Leprosy is also a neglected tropical disease (NTD), which occurs in more than 120 countries, with around 2,00,000 new cases reported every year.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great to see the progress! 0.57 per 10,000 is impressive. But the real challenge is in remote villages. Are ASHA workers getting enough training for early detection? Implementation on the ground is key for that 2027 target.
A
Aditya G
Observing this on Gandhiji's death anniversary is so fitting. His compassion guides this mission. Free diagnosis and treatment are essential, but the article is right—eliminating social stigma is the bigger battle. We all have a role to play.
S
Sarah B
As someone working in public health, I appreciate the comprehensive approach—from MDT to reconstructive surgery. The welfare allowance of ₹12,000 is crucial for patients' livelihoods during recovery. Hope the awareness campaigns reach every corner.
K
Karthik V
A respectful criticism: The article says services are free at *government* facilities. What about the quality and waiting times there? Many people still prefer private clinics, even if they have to pay. Strengthening the public system is the only way.
M
Meera T
"Zero Transmission by 2027" is an ambitious goal! Early detection is everything. Schools and community centers should have regular awareness drives. Proud of how far we've come since 2005. Jai Hind!

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