A legacy of love.
A lifetime of service.
Founded in 1956 in Omalur, Salem District. Serving individuals and families affected by leprosy with medical care, surgical reconstruction, and community inclusion.
Care that sees
the whole person.
Leprosy Relief Rural Centre brings medical care, rehabilitation and community support together. Founded in 1956 by Bishop V. S. Selvanather, LRRC has grown through decades of service to people affected by leprosy.
Our work extends beyond treatment. Rehabilitation, welfare assistance, education and community awareness help people and families participate in everyday life with dignity.
The 2024–2025 annual report records healthcare activities, rehabilitation work and the people who sustain this mission.
Visionaries of Compassion & Healing
The leaders and medical pioneers whose courage gave birth to this enduring sanctuary of care.
Bishop V. S. Selvanather
Bishop of Salem DioceseIn 1956, moved by the plight of individuals cast out of society due to leprosy, Bishop V. S. Selvanather founded the Leprosy Relief Rural Centre along the Salem-Bengaluru highway in Omalur. His vision was not merely an asylum, but an active centre of clinical restoration and unconditional human love.
Dr. Elisabeth Vomstein
German Physician & HumanitarianArriving in 1961 from Germany, Dr. Elisabeth Vomstein dedicated decades of her life to LRRC. Under her leadership, the first reconstructive surgeries were performed in 1967, the new hospital was built in 1970 with German assistance, and the splint and MCR footwear workshop was inaugurated in 1976.
Seven Decades of Milestones
A mission begins
Founded by Bishop V. S. Selvanather.
A new chapter of care
Dr. Elisabeth Vomstein arrives.
Restoring possibilities
First reconstructive surgery recorded.
A hospital takes shape
New hospital inaugurated with German support.
Practical rehabilitation
Orthopaedic splint workshop inaugurated.
Care grows wider
St. Joseph General Hospital begins with maternity, orthopaedics and ophthalmology departments.
A place to come together
Community hall constructed.
Investing in care
Operation theatre renovated.
Governing Body 2024–2025
The custodians of LRRC's mission, stewardship, and governance as reported in the official Annual Activity Report 2024–2025 (p. 24).
Most Rev. Dr. Arulselvam Rayappan
Bishop of Salem · Governing Body 2024–2025
Rev. Dr. J. Vimal
Executive Director · Governing Body 2024–2025
Mr. D. Dhandapani
Administration · Governing Body 2024–2025