Nagaland: Anti-Leprosy Day observed in Phek, Mokokchung

National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP), Phek, observed Anti-Leprosy Day at the conference hall of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Phek under the theme “Leprosy is curable, the real challenge is Stigma.”
Delivering the keynote address, DVBO Phek, Dr. Rebecca Sema, said the theme was a call to action to raise awareness on leprosy and inspire collaborative efforts to eliminate the disease. She highlighted the challenges faced by persons affected by leprosy and informed that medicines and treatment are available free of cost at any DLOs/CMO office in the district. Stressing the responsibility of every citizen, she also emphasized self-care practices.
As part of NLEP activities, the Sparsh Leprosy Awareness Campaign (SLAC) is observed annually across the country as a key advocacy and social mobilization initiative. The theme for SLAC-2026, “Ending Discrimination, Ensuring Dignity,” reiterates the national commitment to eliminate stigma and uphold the dignity, rights and social participation of persons affected by leprosy.
The programme was attended by all vertical programme staff.
MOKOKCHUNG: Anti-Leprosy Day and the Sparsh Leprosy Awareness Campaign was also observed at the CMO Conference Hall, Mokokchung, under the theme “Ending Discrimination, Ensuring Dignity.” Participants took a pledge on the occasion of National Anti-Leprosy Day 2026.
In her keynote address, DPO CD-II, Dr. R. Toshimenla Jamir, said leprosy is one of the oldest known diseases globally and stressed the importance of combating stigma. She reminded that leprosy is treatable and curable, and discrimination must be avoided.
EAC Mokokchung, Vitolu, highlighted the causes, signs and symptoms of leprosy and encouraged healthcare workers and NLEP staff to be more active, coordinate with the masses and strive to eradicate leprosy by 2027.