URI North India & Afghanistan Amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic has had devastating effects on the world. As it continues to wreck havoc across continents, it has had a particularly grave impact on marginalised communities and has changed the definition of who we view as ‘marginalised’ altogether. This humanitarian and public health crisis has made it necessary for us to rethink what we stand for and our roles in the dynamic processes of social inclusion and community building. The pandemic and the resultant nation-wide lockdown put lakhs of migrants, daily wage workers and labourers in a vulnerable situation. Unavailability of jobs, lack of social security measures and disruptions in public transportation systems rendered many hungry and homeless. 

In addition to the above, marginalised communities also include those who’re particularly affected by social stigma - people who use drugs, those affected by HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. The pandemic has made their condition even more difficult. United Religions Initiative (URI) - North India & Afghanistan understands this changed definition and has been making sure that particular attention is paid to them.

It has been instrumental in bridging the gap between those who needed help and those ready to offer it. Through the benefit of its vast network of Cooperation Circles and member groups acting as implementation partners, URI has been able to successfully facilitate distribution of ration to more than 1700 families; thereby impacting a total of more than 7000 people in a period of 2 months across North India. In addition to ration, it has also facilitated the distribution of other essentials like sanitary napkins and masks. URI - North India & Afghanistan, under the able leadership of Ms. Subhi Dhupar, Regional Coordinator has emphasised on addressing the special needs by creating an effective network of volunteers, member groups and grassroots organisations. The relief work was carried out across Delhi NCR, Panipat in Haryana, Lucknow & Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh, Imphal in Manipur, Sikkim, and Alwar in Rajasthan. URI is thankful to its network for making this happen. A special thanks to all our donors, student communities and civil society organisations for their help and support.

Supporting partners: Zomato India, Indo-Global Social Service Society (IGSSS), Turn Your Concern Into Action (TYCIA), MCKS Food for Hungry, Centre for Advocacy and Research, Quarantined Student Youth Network, City Makers, Delhi Relief Collective, Little India Foundation, Sparsh Foundation, Atmashakti Foundation, Elsa Community, RWAs and Individuals.

On ground Heroes: India HIV/AIDS Alliance, Love Care Foundation, My Perch, Zestreet, Nirmala Deshpande Sansthan, Chahat NGO, Sikkim Drug User Forum, Ganga Social Foundation, Aanchal trust, Masahba, URI team members and several community leaders on ground.

To find out what our stakeholders are talking about interfaith activities taking place during Covid-19, click here.