Those abandoned by society and their families, find a home in Anandwan. They are not just physically cared, but mentally boosted by the groundwork of love that Baba has laid. With the sole purpose of enabling leprosy affected as well as other handicaps such as blind, deaf and mute to overcome poverty and prejudice, livelihood opportunities are provided. Through social and economic rehabilitation, they regain their dignity, contribute to the economy and find a respectable place in the community.
In line with Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy, Anandwan has become completely self-sufficient. It was the thought of fulfilling the rational and reasonable needs of the residents that Baba and Dr . Vikas Amte harnessed the latent talent of able minds with feeble bodies to start various cottage industries. The social entrepreneurship, which is now a trending term, has always been encouraged in Anandwan. Most of our industries help mitigate waste by utilizing it as a resource helping the environment in the process.
Our metal Fabrication industry came to rise when the waste Oil TIN cans were re-used and re-molded into kitchen utensils like strainers and spice boxes. The Carpet manufacturing unit was introduced to make rugs and carpets as floor coverings for the residents to sleep on. Hand crafted greeting cards section was started as a means of communication with our friends, supporters and well-wishers. Footwear was made for our leprosy patients by reusing aircraft tires because of their protective nature. Introduction of powerloom helped meet the demand of the bandages needed in our hospitals.
We have treated the mental leprosy by showcasing that leprosy affected people are not just important elements to our society but are now socially independent and have gone to create a benchmark for self-sustaining villages. Yesterday’s liabilities have thus become todays assets not just for Anandwan but for the entire world!