JAMMU, FEBRUARY 12: As part of the ongoing SPARSH Leprosy Awareness Fortnight in the District of Jammu, awareness programs were conducted to educate the public about leprosy, its symptoms, prevention, and free treatment under the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP). The campaign is being overseen by Chief Medical Officer Jammu, Dr Harbaksh Singh, and Zonal Leprosy Officer, Dr Sushma Mattoo.
A key highlight was a Nukkad Natak (street play) performed by the Cultural Unit of the Department of Information & Public Relations (DIPR) Jammu at Maharaja Hari Singh Government Model Higher Secondary Boys School. The play focused on early detection, free treatment, and removing the stigma associated with leprosy.
The District Jammu Leprosy Control Unit, led by Medical Officer Leprosy, Dr Deepika Dewan, conducted an awareness session and distributed informational materials to students and staff. Officials emphasized the importance of timely reporting and community support in eliminating stigma.
The program was organized with support from the Zonal Leprosy Office, Directorate of Health Services Jammu, under the direction of Joint Director Information, Deepak Dubey, and Cultural Officer, Mohit Sharma.