The COVID-19 pandemic is far from over. Many are still reeling from the second wave, while others are bracing for a third. Here is the latest COVID-19 news from India’s hinterlands.
COVID-19 IMPACT
Ration sustains marginalized households through lockdown
Relief package of dry rations alleviated the hunger and food insecurity of informal wage workers who had lost their livelihood during the pandemic.
Women volunteers allay vaccine fears in Jharkhand
Acting as a bridge between communities and public health services, setu didis addressed the concerns of villagers and convinced them to get vaccinated.
Pandemic pushes impoverished villagers into further debts
With income from marginal landholdings and rain-fed agriculture unable to sustain them, tribal communities migrate for work to clear loans. Pandemic has pushed them into perpetual debts.
Supplementary teaching helps students’ overall development
The activity-based program, aimed at age-appropriate learning of students in government schools, has also improved their academic performance, besides ensuring comprehensive progress
Villagers’ fear of vaccines wanes slowly with awareness
Counselling and convincing various village influencers, and encouraging youth volunteers on their campaign drives have helped communities get past rumors and fears to get vaccinated
How can rural India prepare for a third wave
Experience from Jharkhand proves that synergic effort involving local administration, community collectives and civil society organizations can help villages face COVID-19 third wave.
Kashmir’s cherry farmers face the impact of pandemic
Tangmarg’s cherry farmers, who find selling directly to tourists more lucrative, are in a fix as the popular tourist spots have been closed because of the pandemic
Decentralization to localization: Collectives and local development
Community collectives working alongside local administration have reversed pandemic situation and ensured livelihood support. With concomitant procedural measures, the synergy can continue beyond the pandemic
When COVID-19 reaches the vulnerable tribes in hilltops
Despite government’s efforts, reluctance to get tested and isolated, and not adhering to COVID-19 safety protocols, has led to an increase in infection among Odisha’s particularly vulnerable tribal groups