There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning failure. – OLIVER SANDERO
The Karuna Project is a compassionate initiative dedicated to the holistic well-being of individuals grappling with leprosy. Since its launch in June 2000, the project has been steadfast in delivering comprehensive care that addresses not just the physical health, but also the emotional, social, spiritual, and financial well-being of those affected.
Over the past 25 years, Karuna has evolved into a multifaceted movement tackling medical, psychological, and socio-economic challenges through partnerships, specialized training, and an unwavering spirit of compassion. Operating across Mumbai and Thane districts, the initiative has built bridges of support for patients and their families—many of whom face the harsh burden of stigma despite preventive care.
Challenge
Leprosy is not only a medical condition but also a deeply stigmatized social issue. While modern medicine has made leprosy curable, social exclusion, psychological trauma, and economic hardships remain powerful barriers to the rehabilitation of affected individuals.
In urban pockets of Mumbai and Thane, people affected by leprosy often reside in government-designated colonies with limited access to quality healthcare, livelihood opportunities, and social acceptance. Families of patients, though healthy, face discrimination and social isolation, which perpetuates cycles of poverty and marginalization.
The challenge, therefore, lies not only in detecting and treating new cases but also in addressing the complex web of stigma, disability, and generational impact. True eradication requires a holistic approach—medical intervention integrated with counselling, livelihood support, advocacy, and community-based care.
Summary
From daily visits to leprosy colonies, providing dignified funerals, to counselling, disability management, and government collaborations, Karuna continues to stand as a pillar of dignity and resilience. Today, through its partnership with the National Leprosy Eradication Programme, the team conducts home visits, screenings, referrals, follow-ups, and intensive counselling—ensuring no one is left behind in their journey of healing.
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. It mainly affects the skin, nerves, eyes, and the lining of the nose. The good news is—leprosy is fully treatable with timely medical care.
However, the bigger challenge lies beyond medicine. Stigma and misconceptions often prevent people from seeking help. Many fear discrimination and therefore delay testing or treatment. In some cases, early symptoms are mistaken for common skin problems, allowing the disease to progress unnoticed.
A lack of awareness in communities—and sometimes even among healthcare providers—further contributes to late detection. This means that many individuals only receive care once the disease has already advanced, making treatment more complicated and increasing the risk of disability.
At Karuna, we work not only to provide treatment but also to spread awareness, break myths, and fight stigma, ensuring that people affected by leprosy receive care, dignity, and hope.
Our Work
At Karuna, we believe that healing goes beyond medicine. Our programs are designed to care for the whole person—physically, emotionally, socially, and economically—so that individuals affected by leprosy can live with dignity and independence.
Clinic & Medical Support
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Mobile clinics for early detection and treatment
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Medical camps in underserved rural areas
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Door-to-door surveys to identify suspected cases
Screening & Health Camps
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Regular screening camps in partnership with government programs
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Distribution of antibiotics, vitamins, and wound care materials
Awareness & Education
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Community sessions to reduce stigma
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Use of IEC materials (information, education & communication) to spread accurate knowledge and break myths
Self-Care Training
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Guidance on injury prevention, eye care, and hygiene
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Training in simple, independent self-care routines
Psychosocial Support
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Counselling sessions for patients and families
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Group activities to promote mental health and resilience
Livelihood & Skill Development
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Training in tailoring, food processing, and business skills
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Support for microfinance groups and small enterprises
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Creation of production units for sustainable employment
Community Development
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Working with community leaders and volunteers
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Training local healthcare providers to strengthen grassroots capacity
Impact
- 100,000+ medical treatments provided to leprosy affected people
- 36,000+ treatments for general marginalized patients
- 23,000+ individuals screened for presence of leprosy
- 317 new leprosy cases identified and supported in the last 2 years
Your Contribution Creates Lasting Impact
An annual contribution of ₹45,00,000 helps us bring hope and healing to communities affected by leprosy. With your support, we can:
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Conduct house-to-house surveys in remote and underserved areas to identify and treat undiagnosed cases.
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Train local doctors and ASHA workers to recognize symptoms, enabling early diagnosis and timely treatment.
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Educate communities to dispel myths, reduce stigma, and promote acceptance.
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Develop and distribute Information, Education & Communication (IEC) materials to raise awareness and encourage timely action.
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Provide skill-building, treatment, and corrective surgeries that restore dignity and independence.
How Your Support is Utilized Annually
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Medical Care: ₹13,50,000
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Livelihood Training: ₹12,00,000
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Outreach & Awareness: ₹19,50,000
Collaborate with Karuna through corporate CSR, government health partnerships, or NGO alliances.
Contribute resources, training, or logistic support to scale outreach and care delivery.
Together, these initiatives ensure that every individual not only receives medical treatment but also gains the confidence, skills, and opportunities to live a life of dignity.
