New Delhi: The Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown brought lives to a standstill and most of us enjoyed the privilege of staying safe at home. But the medical community including doctors, nurses and the medical staff fought this disease on the frontline, putting their own lives at risk. The healthcare professionals had cut themselves off from their families and loved ones. Several doctors even went to the extent of sacrificing their own lives in the line of duty. As the first immunisation drive started for 44 Assam Rifles under the aegis of 22 Sector Assam Rifles (AR)/ Inspector General Assam Rifles (IGAR)- East, the battalion took the opportunity to extend gratitude to all the healthcare professionals for their service by organising ‘Sammaan Diwas’ in Tamenglong HQ.
The Commandant felicitated the Covid-19 warriors stating that the sacrifices they have made every day for the safety and welfare of humanity is priceless and deserves our lifelong gratitude. The Commandant stated that although vaccination is voluntary and is being provided by govt free of cost, yet it is advisable to receive the complete schedule of Covid-19 vaccine for protecting one- self about this disease and also to limit the spread of this disease to other close contacts including family members, friends, relatives and co-workers. The Covid vaccination drive is a proud moment for us Indians and is a great milestone in India’s scientific research capability.
The Indian scientists and innovators have come forward to serve the cause for humanity. This development is an acceleration on the road to a healthier and Covid-free society. He urged the local public to come forward voluntarily to get vaccinated.
A local haat was displayed at the event showing different colours of the northeast through a range of handicrafts made of wood, bamboo and metals. These crafts, made by the villagers of Tamenglong, are part of 44 Assam Rifles’ initiative for ‘Vocal to Local ‘ to promote the crafts of the Northeast to the rest of India and provide a push to the local economy.
Due to nationwide lockdown in 2020 many local youth lost their jobs and are now struggling for their livelihood. The Northeast has earned appreciation from all across the nation for its rich culture, heritage and art. Since time immemorial craftsmanship and artistry have been a source of livelihood in rural areas. These artisans were given tremendous respect admiration and appreciation. Lack of opportunities and demand have overshadowed the excellence, creativity and hard work of these rural artisans and their traditional artistry.
To further strengthen the Vocal for Local and Make in India initiatives, 44 Assam Rifles is helping rural artisans and craftsmen by providing skills, employment, opportunities, offering facilities to sell their products in newer markets. The unit is showcasing these local handicrafts in all its public outreach programmes to seek prospective buyers.
The Commandant also thanked Dr Pinky Sarangthem, Rapid Response Team WHO, Dr Chambo Gonmei, CMO Tamenglong & his medical team from the Office of the District Health Society, Tamenglong and the CMO, doctors and other medical staff of the battalion for their immense selfless contribution to society.
In the address to the troops and public at the event, Dr Pinky Sarangthem, RRT WHO and Dr Chambo Gonmei, CMO Tamenglong highlighted the effectiveness of the vaccine stating that the post vaccination symptoms are minimal and temporary but at the same time cautioned that drinking and smoking will interfere with the production of antibodies in the body after the vaccination has been carried out.
