Salesian Father Dr. Mathew George, of the Kolkata Province, a former professor of Dogmatic Theology at Sacred Heart Theological College Shillong, has pioneered a mission to leprosy patients in West Bengal. His initiative aligns with Salesian India’s preparations for the centenary celebration of its mother province, Calcutta, in February 2026.
Under his leadership, Don Bosco HRD Mission Dhobasole has provided critical aid to patients at the Bankura Leprosy Hospital, the largest leprosy treatment center in Eastern India.
Despite leprosy being declared eradicated, thousands still suffer in neglected regions, facing extreme social stigma. There are 350 men and 150 women patients, many lacking basic necessities, from mobility aids to proper storage for belongings.
HRD Mission Director Dr. Mathew George recalled, "Our discussions with hospital authorities helped us identify urgent needs beyond what the government could provide. To address these gaps, we supplied 500 bedside lockers, ensuring patients had secure storage for personal items. Recognizing mobility challenges, we provided 50 wheelchairs, 20 tricycles, and 50 pairs of crutches, restoring a sense of independence."
Additionally, Assistant Director Fr Manoj and team distributed 105 hearing aids to improve communication, along with 120 large umbrellas and 120 ceiling fans to ease living conditions. To enhance medical care, crucial equipment—including ECG machines, stethoscopes, BP monitors, and glucometers—was supplied to ensure better diagnostics and treatment.
Petra Theiner of Sudtirol, of “Hoffnung auf einen Besseren Morgen” provided two battery-operated auto rickshaws (Totos) easing transportation for patients. As well as two large washing machines, essential personal care items—mattresses, stools, buckets, towels, soap, oil, and clothing.
Beyond medical relief, Don Bosco HRD Mission has supported rehabilitation villages—Pierdoba, Garbheta, and Bishnupur—where cured patients struggle to reintegrate into society. Initiatives include housing improvements, vocational training, and food assistance, offering dignity and hope to former patients.
A year into its work, the mission stands as a beacon of compassion, proving that sustained action can uplift even the most marginalized lives.
C.M. Paul, SDB
https://www.infoans.org/en/sections/news/item/24570-india-don-bosco-hrd-mission-marks-one-year-of-service-to-leprosy-patients#sigProId74b1139210
