Bhubaneswar: The Sasakawa-India Leprosy Foundation (S-ILF) celebrated its 18th Foundation Day today at the VishwaYuvak Kendra (VYK), New Delhi. The event marked nearly two decades of dedicated efforts towards empowering persons affected by leprosy and their families, fostering inclusion, and combating stigma and discrimination.
The celebration was graced by Mr Baijayant Panda, Member of Parliament, as the Chief Guest, and Mr Yohei Sasakawa, WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination, as the Guest of Honour. The event also featured other dignitaries, including Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General of CII, Mr Tarun Das, Chairman of S-ILF, and Ms Maya Ranavare, President of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL).
In his address, Mr Tarun Das, Chairman of S-ILF, highlighted the importance of sustained efforts and partnerships in creating a stigma-free society. He remarked, “Our journey over the past 18 years has been one of resilience and collaboration. The support of individuals, communities, and organisations has been critical in transforming lives and empowering the marginalised.”
Mr Yohei Sasakawa, a global advocate for leprosy elimination, reaffirmed his commitment to the cause. He stated, “I am proud to stand with S-ILF in their efforts to eradicate leprosy and combat discrimination. Together, with the support of governments and communities, we can create a future where no one is left behind.”
The Foundation Day also celebrated several milestones achieved by S-ILF: S-ILF has extended its interventions to two new states this year, bringing its presence to a total of 17 states across India. The organisation has opened three zonal offices to strengthen its on-ground impact and improve accessibility. Over 100 staff members from across 15 states gathered for the second edition of S-ILF Sangam, fostering collaboration and a shared vision.
A special highlight of the event was the celebration of a decade of the His Holiness The Dalai Lama-Sasakawa Scholarship Programme, which has transformed the lives of young scholars from leprosy colonies by providing education and opportunities.
The event also saw the renewal of the partnership between S-ILF and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reinforcing their shared commitment to promoting education, employment, and inclusion.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr Gaurab Sen, CEO of S-ILF, emphasised the critical role of partnerships, including the support of the Government of India and state governments, in achieving the organisation’s mission. He stated, “S-ILF is proud to supplement the efforts of the Government of India in eradicating leprosy and creating a society where every individual, regardless of their background, can live with dignity and equal opportunities.”
During the programme, children from leprosy colonies presented a cultural performance that inspired and delighted all attendees. The event concluded with a pledge by all attendees to remove stigma and discrimination against persons affected by leprosy.
