 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Oct 3: The Kusht Mukti Abhiyan, aimed at raising awareness about leprosy and combating the social stigma associated with the disease, was observed with great enthusiasm in Jammu Division. The initiative, led by the Directorate of Health Services Jammu, saw various activities and events organized across the region.
Director Health Services Jammu, Dr. Rajeev Kumar Sharma, flagged off the Kusht Mukti Abhiyan Rath from Kusht Ashram Bhagwati Nagar, Jammu, on October 2nd, 2023. The event was coordinated by Dr. Sushma Mattoo, Zonal Leprosy Officer, Jammu.
The primary objective was to educate the community about the causes, transmission, signs and symptoms, treatment, and prevention of leprosy, while also addressing the social stigma associated with the disease.
Inmates from Kusht Ashram, including children, presented a cultural program that was well-received by the attendees.
As part of the initiative, 15 ABHA IDs (Aadhar-based Health Application) were generated for members of Kusht Ashram.
The event saw the participation of key figures, including Deputy Director Dentistry Dr. Sanjay Sharma, Controller of Stores Jammu Dr. Ritesh Khullar, Epidemiologist Dr. Harjeet Rai, State Venerologist, Medical Superintendent of Rajiv Gandhi Hospital, Nodal Officer for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD), Medical Officer of the Mobile Medical Unit (MMU) in Jammu, as well as officers and officials from the Directorate of Health Services Jammu.
District-Wide Observance:
Kusht Mukti Abhiyan was also observed in health institutions across all districts in Jammu Division.
Various activities were organized, including Rath flagging ceremonies, rallies, pledge-taking ceremonies, and awareness campaigns in health institutions, schools, Anganwadi Centers, and the broader community.
Cleanliness drives were conducted in health institutions, emphasizing the importance of early detection and free treatment available at all health facilities to eradicate leprosy.
The health department distributed Information, Education, and Communication materials related to leprosy to field functionaries and the general public.
The Kusht Mukti Abhiyan serves as a crucial step in addressing leprosy-related issues, spreading awareness, and ensuring early detection and treatment, ultimately working towards the goal of eradicating leprosy at its roots. |
