The Regional Workshop on the Establishment of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) for Economic Empowerment of Leprosy-Cured Persons with Deformities (LCPDs) and Ulcer Dressing for LCPDs was jointly organized by Sri Ramakrishna Math, Chennai and SAKSHAM Savita on 1st August 2026 at Sri Ramakrishna Math, Chennai for coordinators, volunteers and LCDP volunteers engaged in Prevention of Deformity (POD) Camp Sites.
The workshop aimed to strengthen community-based rehabilitation services by enhancing the capacities of participants in two key areas: promotion of Self-Help Groups for socio-economic empowerment and standardized ulcer care for LCPDs. About 25 Participants from POD service centers in Chennai, Kumbakonam, Madurai, Salem, Villupuram, Coimbatore and Kanchipuram attended the programme.
The first technical session, handled by Shri R. Lakshmanan, focused on the formation, management and sustainability of SHGs at POD camp sites. Participants were oriented on the objectives and functioning of SHGs as a tool for self-reliance and economic empowerment. They also observed the SHG model implemented at Sri Ramakrishna Math, Chennai and discussed strategies for strengthening group activities, financial sustainability and community participation.
The second session, handled by Sri Siva Ramakrishna, focused on ulcer dressing and wound management for LCPDs. Participants received training on ulcer care principles, preventive measures and standard dressing techniques through demonstrations and hands-on practice. A review of POD center activities was conducted by Dr. S. Sivasubramanian, covering practices, treatment records, ulcer healing outcomes, recurrent cases and challenges in service delivery.
The valedictory session was graced by Dr. V. Dharmalingam, Additional Director of Medical and Rural Health Services (Leprosy), Government of Tamil Nadu, who appreciated the efforts of Sri Ramakrishna Math and SAKSHAM Savita in supporting the rehabilitation of LCPDs. He assured that necessary steps would be taken to provide a monthly pension of ₹2,000 to all eligible LCDPs in Tamilnadu and that efforts would also be made through the Government of Tamil Nadu to enhance the monthly pension to ₹5,000 for LCPDs. Shri A. Padmanaban, State President, SAKSHAM North Tamil Nadu and Mrs. Srinidhi Sathyanarayanan, State Secretary, SAKSHAM North Tamil Nadu also addressed the gathering.
The programme concluded with the benedictory address by Swami Raghunayakananda, Manager, Sri Ramakrishna Math, Chennai. Dedicated volunteers were honoured and rehabilitation assistance was distributed to selected beneficiaries. Shri S. Sasikumar was conferred the “Freedom Fighter Subramania Siva Award” for his exemplary services to LCPDs in Kumbakonam.
The workshop enhanced the knowledge and practical skills of participants in SHG promotion, economic empowerment and ulcer management, while providing a platform for experience sharing and strengthening coordination among POD centres.