Hyderabad: India is intensifying its fight against leprosy through the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP), which provides free testing, treatment and long-term care at government health facilities nationwide. With a renewed strategy and stronger surveillance, the government aims to stop transmission of the disease and eliminate disability and discrimination by 2027.

A centrally sponsored scheme under the National Health Mission, NLEP offers free diagnosis, Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT), preventive services and rehabilitation support. Health officials describe it as one of the country’s most comprehensive public health programmes addressing a neglected tropical disease.

Suspected cases are diagnosed free of cost at government hospitals and primary health centres. Once confirmed, patients receive MDT, the most effective treatment to cure leprosy and prevent further spread. Follow-up care, counselling and referral services are also provided. Authorities stress that early detection is critical, as timely treatment can prevent permanent disability.

To identify hidden cases, the government conducts large-scale detection drives such as the Leprosy Case Detection Campaign (LCDC), Focused Leprosy Campaigns in high-endemic districts, and door-to-door surveys by health workers. Special attention is given to high-prevalence areas, supported by digital reporting and improved case monitoring.

A key preventive intervention is Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), under which a single dose of rifampicin is given to close contacts of leprosy patients, significantly reducing infection risk. Beyond treatment, NLEP focuses on disability prevention and rehabilitation through physiotherapy, self-care training and assistive devices such as Micro Cellular Rubber footwear. Reconstructive surgery is supported where required, along with Rs. 12,000 compensation for wage loss during recovery. India’s National Strategic Plan and Roadmap for Leprosy 2023–2027 aligns with WHO’s global strategy and the Sustainable Development Goals, adopting a patient-centric and rights-based approach. While challenges such as stigma and delayed diagnosis remain, officials say expanded campaigns and preventive measures are steering the country toward a leprosy-free future.