21 July 1952 – 8 May 2021
Dr. Smarajit Jana was a medical doctor and epidemiologist associated with the All India Institute of Hygiene and Public Health, Kolkata. He played a crucial role in developing community-led public health models, most notably through the Sonagachi Project initiated in 1992.
He believed strongly in collective empowerment and was instrumental in forming the Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee, the Society for Health Improvement and Protection, and the All India Network of Sex Workers.
His work focused on HIV prevention, community mobilisation, health rights and social justice for marginalised communities. Internationally respected for his innovative approach, he also contributed to public health initiatives through CARE Bangladesh and CARE India.