By TC News Desk
Agartala, 7th October 2024: The Dhalai District Disability Rehabilitation Center organized an artificial limb distribution program on Monday, specifically aimed at supporting leprosy survivors. The event, held with the backing of the District Chief Health Officer, marked a significant milestone as Pavitra Tripura, a resident of SK Para in Ratan Nagar village under the Ganda Tuisa subdivision, received an artificial limb. Pavitra, a leprosy survivor, had been battling the disease since 2016, with her journey to recovery being a story of resilience and determination.
“Her case is particularly inspiring,” noted Dr. Pritam Debvarma, the Dhalai District Leprosy Officer, at the event. “Despite facing numerous challenges, Pavitra showed incredible strength throughout her treatment.”
Initially diagnosed with leprosy in 2016, Pavitra sought treatment at various healthcare facilities before being referred to the Agartala GB Hospital. There, after a series of tests, doctors confirmed her condition. On March 16, 2024, her treatment took a critical turn when doctors at Agartala GBP Hospital had to amputate one of her legs. Following the amputation, the process of fitting her with an artificial limb, according to leprosy treatment guidelines, began.
Dr. Bijay Das, the State Program Officer, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “This is a significant step forward for leprosy patients in Tripura. It is the first time that a leprosy survivor in the state has received an artificial limb after being cured.”
The emotional ceremony culminated on October 7, 2024, when Pavitra was officially given her artificial limb. Along with the prosthetic limb, the Social Welfare Department presented her with a financial grant of Rs 12,000 to cover the surgery costs and an additional Rs 50,000 to her husband, recognizing his marriage to a woman with a disability. “We are committed to supporting those who have overcome such immense challenges,” said Dhalai District Additional District Magistrate Subhash Acharya, who was also in attendance.
In total, the government spent approximately Rs 1.66 lakh to provide Pavitra with her new limb, underscoring the state’s commitment to supporting leprosy patients and those living with disabilities. The event also featured the distribution of a hearing aid to a deaf individual, further highlighting the government’s dedication to improving the lives of the differently-abled.
The program was inaugurated by Ambasa BAC Chairman Parimal Debbarma, who lit the ceremonial lamp marking the beginning of what was a deeply touching occasion.
