About MSSI

The Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI) is a registered voluntary, non-profit organization established in 1985. We work for the welfare of people affected by Multiple Sclerosis and are affiliated to MSIF UK (Multiple Sclerosis International Federation).

Our founder members  Mrs. Rehmut S. Fazalbhoy and Mr. A. H.Tobaccowala, former Chairman, Voltas India, Mr. K. N.Randeria, Mrs. Sheela Chitnis, Mr. A.J. Joglekar and Major Sharan gathered together with a view to promote the welfare of Multiple Sclerosis persons in India. Since 1985 we have grown gradually and today nine regional chapters are serving and addressing needs of Multiple Sclerosis person locally.

At the national level, MSSI leads unified initiatives that support and amplify the efforts of our regional chapters. We focus on nationwide advocacy for the rights of Persons with MS (PwMS), collaborating closely with chapters to ensure a cohesive voice. We work very closely with relevant ministries and government agencies to build awareness on existing gaps & needs of PwMS. MSSI is affiliated with MS International Federation UK, a global network of MS organisations. Over the last few years, by sharing powerful personal stories and mobilising a community of advocates, we aim to push for urgent policy reforms.

Under our National Advocacy initiative, we have successfully conducted campaigns to address the

• Gaps in Assessment guidelines while issuing Disability Certificates  (ReassMS)
• Need for a National Registry that will provide evidence of MS in India (Numbers Matter)
• Crucial issues of insurance rejection, high premiums, financial burden and other barriers faced by Persons with MS for a comprehensive, fair and inclusive insurance coverage (InsureMyMS). The importance of providing a financial risk for Persons with MS will transform the health insurance landscape in India.

The National Youth Wing comprises of young and dynamic group of PwMS from across all nine chapters. They bring new and innovative ideas that will further the cause of MS as also to help in building awareness among their networks. The Reassess MS and InsureMyMS have been lead by the young brigade.

We have played a key role in various international working group and through the MSIF international resource group we have been able to bring MSSI’s contribution in co-creating, contributing and translating relevant resources.

Every year all chapters come together to celebrate India MS Day on the first Sunday of February and World MS Day on 30th May

Through strategic, programmatic, participative and collaborative intervention within MSSI as well as with international partners and government agencies, we learn from best practices and experiences. This helps strengthen our national strategy to build a compelling narrative to ensure persons with MS & Caregivers’ needs are met in the field of employment, job security, government schemes, insurance and access to affordable quality treatment

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