Abstract

This article examines trends of new leprosy cases during the post elimination phase in India mainly on the basis of data from the Central Leprosy Division of the National Leprosy Eradication Programme, to highlight that leprosy remains a challenge to health care providers. Evolution of the program over the years and integration of the National Leprosy Eradication Programme into the general health system and its impact are also analyzed Critical issues and challenges related to active transmission of the disease as a result of hidden cases and delayed detection and initiation of treatment are discussed.  Suggestive indicators, e.g., annual new case detection rates (ANCDR), proportion of children in new detected cases, and an increase in the cases with visible deformity (G2D) are discussed. Certain program-related issues, the impending danger of being complacentent and potential loss of our hard earned success thus are also discussed. Impact of the stigma associated with leprosy on both the individual and the community is dealt throughout. To deal with the disease, there is an urgent need to deal with  hidden challenge of undiagnosed cases, arresting ongoing transmission, achieve better epidemiological control by effective monitoring, enhance skills at all levels, and promote community involvement by culturally acceptable and scientifically sound educational interventions.