While economic growth has improved living conditions for thousands of families across India, millions more still live in poverty. 200 million people in India live on less than US$1.90 a day. That’s more than three times the population of the UK.

In 2022, 103,819 people were diagnosed with leprosy in India. That’s 60 per cent of all new cases diagnosed worldwide. 5,586 of these new cases were in children.

We have worked in India for 150 years. Your support funds healthcare, livelihoods support, and research.

Healthcare

With just one doctor for every 769 people, many in India cannot access healthcare. Leprosy services are few and far between.

We support six hospitals across India (in Chhattisgarh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Andra Pradesh). These provide specialist leprosy care, as well as broader hospital services. Our medical teams also provide medical care and wellbeing support in communities affected by leprosy.

We are investing in new ways of providing healthcare, for example using 3D printing technology to make protective footwear.

Sustainable Livelihoods

Leprosy disproportionately affects those living in poverty. For many, stigma and disability mean livelihood opportunities are hard to come by.

We support community projects to help people affected by leprosy to lift themselves out of poverty.

We support two Vocational Training Centres, where people affected by leprosy can learn skills and gain employment opportunities. Courses range from mechanics and welding to nursing and IT.

Advocacy

We work with people affected by leprosy to empower them to stand up for their rights. Leprosy advocates have lobbied regional and national governments to repeal discriminatory laws. Together we campaign to end the discrimination and stigma surrounding the disease.

Research

The Stanley Browne Research Laboratory in New Delhi is at the forefront of global leprosy research.

We work with The Leprosy Mission Trust India to find new tools and ways to defeat leprosy. Topics include leprosy transmission, disability management, and combating stigma. We also do operational research to ensure our projects are as effective as possible.

Training

The Leprosy Mission Trust India is recognised as a global centre of excellence for leprosy. We are sharing this expertise globally through face-to-face and online learning.