Strategies in National Leprosy Control programme include-
**Core Concept**
The National Leprosy Control Programme (NLCP) in India aims to reduce the prevalence of leprosy through early detection, treatment, and prevention of disability. The programme focuses on multi-drug therapy (MDT) for patients and measures to prevent transmission of the disease.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is **C. Multi-drug therapy (MDT)**. MDT is the cornerstone of leprosy treatment, comprising a combination of rifampicin, clofazimine, and dapsone. This regimen is effective in curing the disease, preventing disability, and reducing the risk of drug resistance. MDT has been widely adopted globally as the standard treatment for leprosy.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Early diagnosis is crucial in leprosy, but it is not a strategy in the NLCP. Early diagnosis is a component of the programme, but it is not a distinct strategy.
**Option B:** Leprosy elimination is the ultimate goal of the NLCP, but it is not a strategy in the programme. Leprosy elimination is a long-term objective that is achieved through the implementation of various strategies.
**Option D:** BCG vaccination is not a strategy in the NLCP. While BCG vaccination is effective in preventing leprosy, it is not a specific strategy in the programme.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends MDT as the standard treatment for leprosy, and it has been shown to be effective in reducing the prevalence of the disease.
**Correct Answer: C. Multi-drug therapy (MDT)**