Mumbai (NVI): The nationwide lockdown induced by Covid-19 outbreak has affected the lives of thousands of people across the country, especially in Mumbai, which has been one of the worst-hit areas due to the pandemic.
The most affected are commercial sex workers, transgenders, daily wagers hailing from the overpopulated slum areas in the commercial capital, and the diligent frontline workers.
In an attempt to support such vulnerable groups in Mumbai, three decorated officers of the Indian Territorial Army today distribute ration and hygiene kits to these people with the help of Mumbai Police.
The distribution of kits successfully took place with the assistance of the Additional Commissioner Central Region, Veeresh Prabhu (IPS).
Essential kits were arranged and sponsored by NASSCOM Foundation, the social arm of the IT-BPM industry body, working towards the goal of social transformation.
The noble initiative was undertaken by Shaurya Chakra winner Major Pradeep Arya (Indian Revenue Services), Captain Neil Shaji, VSM (Vishisht Seva Medal) and Major Sanjay Raole to aid the vulnerable groups who lost their livelihood due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The TA officers distributed these kits in the streets of Kamathipura and Falkland regions of Mumbai, home to innumerable sex workers and transgenders. This community is particularly hard-hit as their source of income is incurred daily.
“With the support and assistance of Mumbai Police and partnered NGOs, we were able to swiftly implement the first stage of this course. The distribution of the necessary kits began on Friday, 22nd May and is to continue among other sectors and regions of Mumbai. Catering to the basic needs, each kit will contain not only groceries but also hygiene products. We aim to distribute 4500 ration kits and 4500 hygiene kits in the first stage.” said Captain Neil Shaji.
Additionally, these assorted essential kits will also be distributed to similar regions of Sion-Agripada, Cotton green, Charni Road and Kandivali.
“Our aim with this initiative is to support the vulnerable people and encourage them to stay home and not step outside to buy essentials. I always like to look on the optimistic side of life, but I am realistic enough to know that life is complex, more so during these trying times” said Major Pradeep Arya.
These kits contain 5 kg of wheat flour, 5 kg of rice, 2 kg of tur dal, 200 gms of turmeric powder, and chilli powder. Along with the ration kit, 3 soaps, 2 washing cloth soap, hand wash and sanitary napkin are also being distributed as part of the hygiene kit.
“On behalf of the entire team, we are thankful to everyone who contributed in every way possible no matter how big or small. A large number of livelihoods are affected by the lockdown, so as our duty we will continue to work towards the relief for the vulnerable groups in the days to come,” said Major Sanjay Raole.
The officers received the support of NGOs like Prerna Foundation, Apne Aap Collective, Rescue Foundation for their work with the Community Sex Workers and Arju Foundation for their assistance with the transgenders communities.
