JAIN (Deemed-to-be University)’s National Service Scheme (NSS) wing conducted an awareness survey on COVID-Free Village at T Hosahalli hamlet on September 23, 2021. The COVID-free Village Karnataka project, initiated by Bharatiya Jain Sanghatan (BJS) in association with the Government of Karnataka, was implemented in T Hosahalli gram panchayat, a rural settlement adopted by JAIN (Deemed-to-be University). NSS Program Officer and volunteers toured T Hosahalli gram panchayat to create awareness and collect information on COVID and vaccination drive awareness.

The NSS volunteers, comprising of students from the university, met and spoke to the residents, informing them of the current COVID scenario in the state and country. They also advised them to strictly follow safety measures like wearing masks while going outdoors and sanitizing when needed. Other information shared by the volunteers were as follows:

• Proper usage of masks, and benefits of receiving the vaccination
• Explaining safety measures and vaccination drives as announced by authorities
• Adhering to COVID protocol and the ways one can exhibit responsibility to curb the spread of the virus
• Importance of getting vaccinated and maintaining the gap between vaccination cycle
• Information about various schemes launched by the Government of India to support COVID relief measures

Dr. Rajani Jairam, Dean – Student Welfare JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) and Dr. Sreenivasaiah R, NSS, Program Coordinator, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) shared words of inspiration with the volunteers before they embarked on the fieldwork.

This program offered the volunteers a ground view of the hurdles faced by inhabitants of rural regions or hamlets across India due to the current global health crisis. They were made aware of necessary precautions to be taken if their immediate family member is feeling ill. The volunteers also took time to dissipate myths and recommend best practices. The active participation and enthusiasm portrayed by the volunteers were noteworthy in making this awareness a success.

Overall the awareness survey program was beneficial for both the volunteers and the residents of T Hosahalli. JAIN (Deemed-to-be Univerisity) - NSS (National Service Scheme) regularly conducts social events that give the student volunteers a chance to connect with the community and sensitize them about various issues.