An anganwadi worker in Garo Hills has been recognized for her hard work and service above and beyond the call of duty at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic in the state last year.
Stella N Marak (35), a resident of Tikrikilla’s Boldampitbari area, was honoured for her work during the Republic Day celebrations earlier this week in Tura.
“As an anganwadi worker, we were really the first point of contact for those coming from outside the state and being put into quarantine. We assisted all of them and catered to their needs. We even provided food and essentials to those that were under home quarantine by making home deliveries,” said Stella.
While the work was frustrating at times, the anganwadi worker asserted that she was determined to do her bit in helping those that really needed help.
“We bore some of the tantrums thrown at us with the understanding that they needed us in their moment of test. I am extremely happy that we have been able to get through that period,” she added.
The mother of two wished to thank the entire village of Boldam, who, she explained, were extremely helpful during those trying times.
“The credit for the award I got goes to the people of my village. They have been extremely supportive of my work and have helped all the time,” Stella, who lives in her village with her mother, younger sister, two children and husband, explained. Her husband is a daily wage labourer.
Incidentally, this is not the first time she has been rewarded. Due to her hard work as an accredited social health activist (ASHA) before becoming an anganwadi worker, she was awarded for her work at the block level twice.
“My childhood was difficult and I had to quit studies in between to help my siblings study. Thankfully they are doing fine in their own lives now. I am happy with my work as an anganwadi worker despite the low salary as I have always loved helping people and the job allows me to do this,” Stella said.
