Anjana Devi, 23, from Khiriava village in Aurangabad district, Bihar, faced severe stigma and exclusion due to an unknown illness. Despite treatment from a village doctor for sensory issues in her feet and mobility problems, she was outcast by her community for looking different.
Her fortune changed when she connected with a local self-help group working closely with the NLR India Foundation (NLRIF). The NLRIF team assessed her condition, conducted necessary tests, and diagnosed her with leprosy. They promptly provided the relevant treatment and taught her self-care practices to prevent further complications. Additionally, they helped her obtain a certificate for her “Grade 2” disability, enabling her to receive Rs. 1500 monthly from the Bihar Shatabdi Leprosy Welfare Scheme.
Recognizing Anjana’s potential for self-employment, the NLRIF team supported her financially. Anjana had previously taken a loan of Rs. 3,000 from the local Divyang Self Help Group, which was insufficient for her to start a home-based business, causing her significant distress. Seeing her skill in making incense sticks, NLRIF provided her with Rs. 25,000 to purchase an Incense Stick Manufacturing Machine.
Now, Anjana Devi produces incense sticks at home, earning an annual income of up to Rs. 2,50,000. She expresses deep gratitude to NLR India Foundation for transforming her life, allowing her to live with dignity.“I am thankful to NLR India Foundation for providing me a new life, and now I am living a dignified life. Please help more.”
