COVID-19 brought unprecedented changes to life across the world. In this crisis, BCT continued to work with its rural communities and was able to reach 1, 16, 628 villagers. From spreading awareness, to distributing masks, to creating income generation channels, BCT helped reduce financial burden on villagers while providing health support.
The CAGs played a pivotal role, as they along with local youngsters and BCT high school alumni raised awareness on hygiene and social distancing. Physically challenged persons were provided employment too, as they were engaged in tailoring masks which were distributed by the CAGs along with vegetables, ration, and other material. The elderly were also provided the required support. An initiative of ‘Farmers and you’ was started that helped to take the produce from farms to doorsteps of buyers. This helped farmers earn an income during the tough times.
Seeing the plight of the policemen on duty with their handkerchief as masks, BCT also produced and distributed masks to over 1000 police personnel in the region. Online education modes were set up for school students and trainees at the SMART centers. Social media tools were also used to disseminate information to villagers. The lockdown clashed exactly with harvest for Rabi crops, and so BCT KVK continued to work through this period on skeletal basis and extend services to the farmers.
Primary health centers were provided support by providing required medicines, masks, oxygen concentrators, oximeters and other equipment, such that they remained accessible to people. It was a difficult time, that saw the various members of BCT family unite as one and work for the villages.