^{Image Source: Deccan Herald}

Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada district in-charge Minister Kota Srinivas Poojary asked all Gram Panchayats to create awareness about the need to adapt self-control systems to mitigate the spread of contagious diseases, including Covid-19.

He was addressing the Gram Panchayat presidents during a video conference organised at the Zilla Panchayat office on Friday, May 1. “As the rainy season is nearing, all the Gram Panchayats should take precautionary measures to keep contagious diseases like malaria, dengue and others at bay. People should be educated about the need for self-control so as to stop the spread of COVID-19,” he said.

The Minister asked the Gram Panchayats to initiate the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme effectively to help the people.

“The Government has already released Rs 20,000 for every Gram Panchayat to handle COVID-19. This money can be used in the creation of awareness on COVID-19 and to procure essential equipment for ASHA workers who are working round-the-clock in this regard. Concerned Gram Panchayat members should assist the ASHA workers during their health surveys, ” Minister Kota added.

MP Nalin Kumar Kateel, ZP President Meenakshi Shanthigodu, Vice President Kasthuri Panja, ZP CEO Dr Selvamani R, District Health Officer Dr Ramachandra Bayari and others were present.