Despite India officially eliminating leprosy as a public health problem in 2005, the disease continues to quietly affect thousands every year, particularly in rural and underserved regions. Experts warn that complacency, social stigma, and weak surveillance are enabling the continued transmission of a disease that is both curable and preventable. 

A Persistent Challenge  According to the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP), India reported over 75,000 new leprosy cases in 2022–23—accounting for more than half of the global burden. States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Maharashtra report the highest prevalence rates, often in tribal and low-income communities.  “While the numbers may seem small in a country of over a billion people, each case represents a failure in early detection and awareness,” says Dr. Rakesh Mishra, a public health specialist in infectious diseases.

“Leprosy is still very much present—just hidden behind layers of neglect and stigma.”  Understanding Leprosy  Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is caused by Mycobacterium leprae, a slow-growing bacterium that affects the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes. Contrary to popular belief, it is not highly contagious and can be treated with a combination of antibiotics provided free of cost under government programs. 

Symptoms include discolored skin patches, numbness, muscle weakness, and, in untreated cases, deformities. The disease progresses slowly, and early diagnosis is key to preventing disability.  Stigma Still a Barrier  One of the most persistent challenges in eradicating leprosy is the social stigma attached to it. Many patients delay seeking treatment out of fear of isolation, discrimination, or loss of livelihood.  “People with leprosy are still ostracized in many parts of India,” says Dr. Anupama Kulkarni, Dermatologist and Leprosy Awareness Advocate.

“We’ve treated patients who were forced to live in isolation, even though they were no longer infectious.”  To counter this, awareness campaigns led by government agencies and NGOs are trying to educate communities and encourage early reporting.  Spotlight on Child Cases and Disability  Alarmingly, children account for around 6–8% of new leprosy cases in India—a sign that active transmission is ongoing. Experts say this calls for urgent improvement in community-level screening and contact tracing.  Another concern is the rate of Grade 2 disabilities among newly diagnosed patients, indicating delayed detection and nerve damage.

“This is unacceptable for a disease that is completely curable if caught early,” adds Dr. Kulkarni.  Government Response and Gaps  The Government of India continues to implement the NLEP through active surveillance, training of frontline workers, free medication, and public education. Special initiatives such as the Sparsh Leprosy Awareness Campaign aim to reduce stigma and promote inclusivity.  However, health activists argue that funding and political attention to leprosy have declined post-2005. “Once the disease was declared eliminated, resources dried up. But elimination doesn’t mean eradication,” says Dr. Mishra. 

The Way Forward  To truly root out leprosy, experts call for a multi-pronged strategy—early detection through active case finding, strengthening of primary health centers, disability prevention and management, and a sustained campaign against stigma.  “We need to reframe leprosy as a public health priority, not just a relic of the past,” says Dr. Kulkarni.

“Only then can we finally break the cycle of silence and suffering.”  India has made remarkable strides in tackling leprosy, but the journey is far from over. Behind the statistics are thousands of people still waiting for timely diagnosis, compassionate care, and societal acceptance. It’s time to shine a light on this neglected disease—because no one should suffer in silence from something that’s both preventable and curable.