Update on NLEP

• NLEP (National Leprosy Eradication Programme) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under National Health Mission (NHM), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, aimed at eliminating leprosy as a public health problem.
• India accounts for the largest leprosy burden globally; NLEP combines active case detection (LCDC, FLC), free MDT, surveillance and stigma-reduction (Sparsh campaign).
• The National Strategic Plan & Roadmap for Leprosy (2023–2027) targets zero transmission by 2027, three years ahead of SDG 3.3 (2030).