The Comprehensive Disability Referral Centre in Tinsukia Tea Garden opened in September 2025 and the Satellite Centre in the Dhoedaam Tea Estate was established in January 2026.
With many livelihoods in Assam associated with the tea industry, it is particularly fitting that the award-winning social enterprise ‘Tea People’ are contributing funding to Lepra’s health provision in the region.
Many remote rural areas in Assam lack suitable access to specialised treatment services for leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Lepra’s referral centres aim to break the cycle of health inequality by enabling early diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing support.
Since the opening of the centres, there has already been a significant impact on detection and treatment rates in the community.
As of February 2026, a total of 38 people were diagnosed with leprosy, and seven people were diagnosed with lymphatic filariasis. They are now receiving the treatment, care and support they need.
During the visit, Neeraj and Vishaka observed a field activity in Dheodaam where staff and volunteers travelled door-to-door educating residents on the symptoms and treatment of leprosy and other NTDs. It was here that the team met 25-year-old Naina, who was the first person to be diagnosed with leprosy when the centre opened in January 2026.
Naina spoke about her recovery journey, explaining that since taking multidrug therapy treatment, she had noticed an improvement in the discoloured patches and sensation of her skin. Educating people on the importance of completing the full course of treatment is an important role of staff and volunteers. If treatment is not completed, symptoms will likely return.
Neeraj and Vishaka also learned how the distribution of protective footwear and skin care kits were helping people affected by leprosy and lymphatic filariasis with their recovery. The team also contributed to a discussion on the need for greater leprosy awareness education in schools.
The visit strengthened engagement with Tea People, highlighted progress in early detection, and generated valuable suggestions for enhancing leprosy awareness among school children.
"We met an incredible team of deeply committed individuals who are truly passionate about the cause...
Neeraj and I felt genuinely inspired by the work being done on the ground and the tangible difference it is making to people’s lives.
Tea People is an award-winning fine tea social enterprise founded by husband wife duo Neeraj and Vishaka to address the issue of poverty in tea growing regions of the world. Tea People fund educational and social projects in impoverished tea growing regions.
For more information on Lepra’s health provision in Assam, see here.
