Children of Baruahtika village turn adversity into opportunity

LAKHIMPUR: COVID-19 has altered the lives of millions of people across the globe. The situation caused by the pandemic has not only affected the physical health of all kinds of people, irrespective of their age and gender, but also affected the mental health of the children.

According to a galaxy of psychologists of the native land as well as abroad, some children, during the pandemic situation, have developed higher levels of stress, feeling restless or grumpy while some have developed anxiety and become irritable, aggressive or scared. The lack of day-to-day school routine is one of the biggest factors that has affected children. Routines give children structure and a framework they can rely on, which is very much important. Routine and structure give them a feeling of safety and comfort. As the consequence of continuous closure of schools due to the pandemic impact since March 15 in the State, the children have been deprived of the opportunities which are required for their mental and academic well-being. Though online teaching system was launched across the State, it does not seem comprehensively beneficial for all children. Another big thing is that the loss of social contact has also affected the children.

Under such a critical situation, a host of kids living in Baruahtika village under Dhakuakhana subdivision of Lakhimpur district has drawn the attention of the conscious citizens as well as the common people. Notwithstanding the adverse situation, these kids have turned the adversities caused by the pandemic into opportunities, not only for their refreshment and mental well-being but also for fighting against the pandemic. Guided by two educated girls of the village- Jepuleen Dutta and Juri Dutta, these kids have created effective awareness on the pandemic.

The people of Baruahtika village, which is located 2 km away from Dhakuakhana headquarter, were living in fear of the deadly coronavirus. Adapting all pre-cautionary measures, Jepuleen Dutta and Juri Dutta guided the kids of the village to create due awareness programme on COVID-19 in the village and the adjacent areas by using their inborn talents. The children spread awareness about the pandemic by group dancing while maintaining social distancing, singing and making posters. The children appeald to the people to wear face masks, to use hand sanitizers and to maintain social distancing in public places in order to prevent community transmission of the pandemic.

Since April, Jepuleen Dutta and Juri Dutta, who are master degree holders in 'Communications for Sanitation, Hygiene and Health', conducted by Dibrugarh University, created awareness on cleanliness and hygiene in the area. The people of the area have appreciated the admirable attempts of the kids. Notably, no COVID-19 patient has been detected in the village till date.

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