About Us

GoodByeLeprosy (GBL), established in 2013, is a Group of civil society organizations aiming to help end leprosy in India and serve people affected by leprosy by enhancing national policy and program implementation. 

Leprosy, a disease caused by the bacteria ‘Mycobacterium leprae’ known over 5,000 years, remains a contemporary public health challenge in many parts of the world, particularly in India. It primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, mucosa and eyes.

Globally, 59% new cases have occurred in India. Leprosy has been associated with significant stigma and discrimination throughout history, leading to social isolation and exclusion.and  continues to be one of the major causes of permanent disability in India. A large number of people with disabilities due to leprosy need a continuum of care. 

India hosts over half of the global leprosy-affected population living in tribal, rural and neglected geographies , and  over 700 isolated leprosy colonies. In these colonies people largely live in vulnerable conditions, unhealthy environments, and facing ongoing discrimination and stigma.

Overall Leprosy is still an isolating disease, causing immense distress to individuals and families of affected people… impacting lives – physically, mentally, socially and economically; and worse: leprosy is still feared by most people in society. 

Our journey is driven by a vision of a leprosy-free India, where individuals affected by this disease can live dignified and empowered lives.