'Even PDS Shops are Closed'

Q: When did you first get to know about Covid-19?

Supervisor: I got to know about it in February. We were informed about the virus through a video conference call that we had with the senior officials. 

Q: What are your COVID-19 related tasks?

Supervisor: We are conducting a survey and identifying people who have symptoms like cold and cough, and also who have come to the village from outside. This is being reported to the CDPO (the Child Development Project Officer is a Block-level official in-charge of the ICDS) every day. We are also distributing ration – Take Home Ration and Supplementary Nutrition Programme. The good thing is that people are following the lockdown and essential services are being provided at the doorstep by the workers. 

I am 62-years-old and just like everyone who is above 60, I have also been asked to work from home. Therefore, I am doing my work at home via phone and WhatsApp. 

Q: Have you observed shortages?

Supervisor: Due to complete lockdown in Bhopal, we are facing a shortage of ration and vegetables. Even PDS shops are closed. 

The interview was conducted with a Lady Supervisor (who is in charge of managing Anganwadi workers) in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh in Hindi on 10 April 2020, and has been translated.