A Model of Healing with Self-Reliance: Chhattisgarh CM Sai Impressed by the Work of Sothi Ashram

While the number of leprosy cases in India has declined over the years, the social stigma attached to the disease and the challenge of ensuring dignified rehabilitation for affected persons are far from over. Even after treatment, many people continue to face social exclusion, neglect and rejection. At such a time, the Indian Leprosy Relief Association Ashram at Sothi (Katrenagar) in Chhattisgarh’s Janjgir-Champa district stands out as a remarkable model where leprosy-affected persons are offered not just treatment, but shelter, rehabilitation, skills and an opportunity to lead a self-reliant life.Nearly six decades old, the institution has grown beyond being just a leprosy treatment centre. It has evolved into a hub of healthcare, social rehabilitation and community

support.Established on April 5, 1962 by social worker and leprosy survivor the late Sadashiv Govind Katre, the Ashram was founded with the vision of reconnecting patients with the mainstream of society and helping them live with dignity. That is why Sothi Ashram is today seen not merely as a place of charity or sympathy, but as a model of dignity-based rehabilitation.The Ashram runs a 20-bed hospital where leprosy patients and other needy people are provided free treatment, medicines, dressing, food, clothing and shelter. It also has basic medical facilities such as a pathology lab and X-ray services, while patients requiring advanced care are referred to higher medical institutions. At present, 75 men and women are residing in the Ashram, and nearly 120 workers are engaged in service activities there.What makes the Ashram special is that it does not stop at treatment; it also helps people stand on their own feet. Through farming, horticulture, chalk making, carpet weaving, rope making, tailoring, computer training, welding and driving lessons, patients are connected with livelihood opportunities and encouraged to become self-reliant. The institution also takes care of the education of their children.The Ashram also plays an active role in expanding healthcare services. Free health and eye check-up camps are organised from time to time, and with the support of the government and administration, more than 10,000 cataract surgeries have been carried out so far. During the health camp organised on Wednesday, more than 300 people underwent different medical check-ups, while awareness and screening related to serious diseases such as cancer were also conducted.Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai visited the Ashram on Wednesday and reviewed its service activities, medical facilities and rehabilitation work. Describing the Ashram as “a true pilgrimage of humanity, compassion and service,” he said leprosy is not only a physical illness but has also long been associated with social neglect and discrimination. He said giving such people an opportunity to live with dignity, security and confidence is one of society’s greatest responsibilities. The Chief Minister also inspected Sant Guru Ghasidas Hospital located within the Ashram campus and said that helping a person stand on his or her own feet with self-respect is among the highest forms of service.Sothi Ashram is not merely a local institution in Chhattisgarh; it is a powerful example of a humane development model in which public health, social justice and dignity-based rehabilitation move together. At a time when development is often measured only in terms of roads, buildings and investment, Sothi Ashram reminds us that the true progress of a society lies in how much dignity, support and self-reliance it can offer to its most neglected and vulnerable people.