Statement by India under Agenda Item 3, Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the elimination of discrimination against persons affected by leprosy (Hansen’s disease) and their family members, at the 59thSession of the Human Rights Council (16 June – 9 July 2025), delivered by Ms. Anupama Singh, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India Statement by India under Agenda Item 3, Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the elim..
  • Home > 59th Session of the Human Rights Council (16 June - 9 July 2025) > Statement by India under Agenda Item 3, Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the elimination of discrimination against persons affected by leprosy (Hansen’s disease) and their family members, at the 59thSession of the Human Rights Council (16 June – 9 July 2025), delivered by Ms. Anupama Singh, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India

Statement by India under Agenda Item 3, Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the elimination of discrimination against persons affected by leprosy (Hansen’s disease) and their family members, at the 59thSession of the Human Rights Council (16 June – 9 July 2025), delivered by Ms. Anupama Singh, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India



Statement by India under Agenda Item 3, Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the elimination of discrimination against persons affected by leprosy (Hansen’s disease) and their family members, at the 59thSession of the Human Rights Council (16 June – 9 July 2025), delivered by Ms. Anupama Singh, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India

Geneva, 20 June 2025

Madam Vice President,

  1. India reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the global goal of leprosy eradication. As a country historically bearing the highest burden of leprosy, we have made significant progress through a sustained, multi-sectoral approach under the National Leprosy Eradication Programme.
  1. We have integrated leprosy services into Primary Healthcare, ensured free access to WHO-recommended multidrug therapy, and prioritized early detection through active surveillance.
  1. Our flagship initiatives such as Sparsh Leprosy Awareness Campaigns and the Nikusth digital reporting system have enhanced case tracking and public engagement.

    4. Further, India has invested heavily in capacity building. Institutions like the Central Leprosy Teaching and Research Institute and the National Institute of Epidemiology offer advanced training and collaborate with partners especially those in our neighbourhood, strengthening regional responses.
  1. . Our efforts also focus on eliminating stigma through legal measures and community empowerment, aligned with the UN Principles on the elimination of discrimination against persons affected by leprosy.

Madam Vice President

  1. India believes global eradication is within reach, but it demands solidarity, knowledge sharing, and inclusive policies. We urge enhanced collaboration to ensure that no one is left behind in our shared journey to end leprosy.

I thank you.