SPARSH leprosy awareness fortnight culminates with Nukkad Natak at PM Govt. City Middle School RS Pura

Jammu : The SPARSH Leprosy Awareness Fortnight campaign concluded Friday in district Jammu with an awareness programme held at PM Government City Middle School, RS Pura.
The campaign was carried out under the supervision of Chief Medical Officer Jammu, Dr Harbaksh Singh, Zonal Leprosy Officer, Dr Sushma Matoo and Block Medical Officer RS Pura, Dr Balwinder Singh. It aimed to strengthen public understanding of leprosy, remove stigma and encourage early detection of the disease.
To mark the culmination, a Nukkad Natak (street play) was organised by the Cultural Unit of the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) Jammu, with support from the school’s Principal, Sheetal Kundal. The play sensitised students, staff and community members about the signs and symptoms of leprosy, the importance of timely medical attention and the availability of free treatment through government health services.
The District Leprosy Control Unit Jammu, led by Medical Officer Dr Deepika Dewan along with Para Medical Assistants Krishan Kumar and Subash Chowdhary, conducted an awareness session for school staff, students and medical personnel.
Pamphlets and posters highlighting early detection, treatment procedures and misconceptions related to leprosy were distributed to encourage informed community participation. The medical team also addressed queries and emphasised that leprosy is completely curable if diagnosed early.
The event reinforced the key messages of the SPARSH campaign: ending stigma, promoting awareness and encouraging prompt medical intervention.
The programme was conducted under the direction of Joint Director Information Jammu, Deepak Dubey and the supervision of Cultural Officer Jammu, Mohit Sharma.