IMPRI Team
To discuss the pertinent topic of the time, measures to tackle the spread of the second wave in rural areas and the medical condition of the poor following the Pandemic, the Centre for Habitat, Urban and Regional Studies (CHURS), Impact and Policy Research Institute (IMPRI), New Delhi and Department of Social Work, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirapalli organized a Panel Discussion with eminent panelists on “Rural Realities | Tamil Nadu Practitioners’ Experiences in Tackling the Second Wave”on May 22, 2021.
Ms. Esther Mariaselvam, Associate Director of Action Aid India, shared her experience in COVID response. In the rural area, there exists negligence and a lack of awareness. This populace often postpones medical attention and testing when they develop minor symptoms thus increasing risk and accelerating spread.
This is largely due to stigma and discrimination which causes even the positive patients to shroud the news. She opined that all attention is diverted to oxygen and medical supply and thus other areas like nutrition and livelihood are overlooked. The study by the Azim Premji foundation reveals that between March and Oct 2020, 23 crore families were pushed into poverty. Mental health issues are another ignored area. Therefore, it is necessary to address all the issues equally.
Every disaster is an opportunity to till the power in favor of the powerless. This pandemic is an opportunity where more resources are allocated for health, ensure quality health for all regardless of location, caste, creed, and color.
Ms. Esther Mariaselvam
