In an effort to remove the stigma attached to leprosy, the Leprosy Mission Trust of India is launching a nationwide campaign to reach out to over a million people by bringing together corporates, governments, schools and people affected by the disease.
The campaign Hire Educate Accept Leprosy-affected (HEAL) will be reaching out to people through 40,000 children in schools across Delhi, NCR, and also colleges through workshops, films and music.
The organisation is also advocating that leprosy awareness becomes a part of school curriculum.
As a part of the programme, an anthem will be composed to highlight the issue. The campaign has also tied up with student bodies and other clubs and associations to spread the message.
India accounts for 58 per cent of new leprosy cases worldwide.
The campaign will be opening up avenues of employment for leprosy patients by building their skills, connecting them to employment opportunities and creating an inclusive hiring environment through a corporate charter with industry bodies.
The campaign will be launched here on October 10.
