Dhoolpet Leprosy Referral Centre (DLRC) was transformed into Blue Peter Research Centre (BPRC) in 1997 with the support from Lepra UK and Blue Peter Children Fund. Eventually, the centre has been recognised as Scientific Industrial Research Organisation (SIRO) by the Department of Science and Technology with a state-of the art facility to undertake applied bio medical research in the disciplines of Clinical/ Immunology/ Molecular Biology aspects of leprosy.
In 2010, the public health component was incorporated into BPRC with an emphasis on clinical and epidemiological research in TB, leprosy, and NTDs, of immediate relevance to the people affected.
The Blue Peter Public Health and Research Centre (BPHRC) was established from the funds raised by a BBC television show for children, ‘Blue Peter’. It is a nodal research centre towards implementing organisation strategic research areas Leprosy, Tuberculosis (TB) and, Lymphatic Filariasis. The BPHRC functions in line with the above strategic aim of the LS with a clinic and two laboratories (immunology and molecular biology, Microbiology) as core components within the center. The BPHRC brings uniqueness to LEPRA Society as an NGO with a centrally located laboratory that works closely with clinics and outreach programme across multiple regions in India endemic to leprosy, TB and LF.
Mechanisms governing research at BPHRC are well in place. The Research Advisory Committee (RAC), Institutional Ethical Committee (IEC) and Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBSC) which comprise well-known scientists, doctors, and other socially responsible individuals, oversee the research activities.
Research training: A wide range of training programmes for undergraduates, postgraduates and post-doctoral researchers to develop knowledge and skills are offered. The research-based teaching and hands-on training offered to the trainees, the state-of-the-art equipment and well-equipped labs, serve as the basis for attracting and holding on to young researchers.
Academic and Technical training: Medical education programme for medical graduates and post-graduates. Skill enhancement training for field and laboratory staff working on leprosy and TB.
Dissemination of knowledge: The knowledge accrued is disseminated through peer reviewed journal publications at national and international levels , presentations at various conferences and community awareness programmes .
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