On 19th June 2026, a Leprosy Awareness and Community Rehabilitation Programme was organized at Coronation Government Hospital, Kumbakonam. The programme was jointly hosted by the Rotary Club of Kumbakonam, Sri Ramakrishna Math, SAKSHAM, and the Leprosy Department, Government of Tamil Nadu, with the objective of raising awareness about leprosy, dispelling myths and social stigma, and promoting the rehabilitation of Leprosy Cured Persons with Deformities (LCPDs). As part of the rehabilitation initiative, ulcer dressing services were provided and MCR protective footwear was distributed to eligible beneficiaries to prevent further disability and improve their quality of life.
The programme was led by medical professionals comprising Dr. R. Thangarathinam, Corporation Health Officer, Kumbakonam; Dr. T. Prema, Medical Officer, Murukkankudi (Patteeswaram); Dr. M. Manoj Kumar; and Dr. R. Gunaseelan, Deputy Director (Leprosy) and District Leprosy Medical Officer, Thanjavur District. Through informative sessions, the doctors educated participants and the public gathering on the early signs and symptoms of leprosy, the importance of timely diagnosis and uninterrupted treatment, and emphasized that leprosy is a completely curable disease when detected early. Besides, Dr. R. Gunaseelan lauded the efforts of Sri Ramakrishna Math and SAKSHAM in addressing the challenges faced by LCPDs across Tamil Nadu.
The programme was successfully conducted through the collective efforts of Rotary leaders, members of the Sri Ramakrishna and Vivekananda Trust, volunteers, and healthcare personnel. Under the guidance of Shri G. Venkataraman of the Sri Ramakrishna and Vivekananda Trust, Kumbakonam, and the coordination of Shri. S. Muthukumarsamy, NMS, the awareness sessions and rehabilitation activities were carried out efficiently. This joint initiative promoted awareness, rehabilitation and social inclusion of LCPDs through integrated care, ulcer management and MCR footwear support, reaffirming the commitment to dignity, health and stigma reduction.