Global Appeal 2025 to end leprosy-related stigma & discrimination launched from Odisha with endorsement from ministries of Health of 56 countries

30th January observed as Anti-Leprosy Day in India to mark Mahatma Gandhi’s death anniversary

Global Appeal 2025 to End Stigma and Discrimination Against Persons Affected by Leprosy was launched in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, with endorsements from the health ministries of 56 countries worldwide. The launch, co-hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative, brought together persons affected by leprosy from many Indian states, the Odisha Ministry of Health, and several other experts and advocates for leprosy elimination. The launch of Global Appeal 2025 began with a message from Ms. Jayanti Pradhan, a person affected by leprosy from Odisha.