ASHA Workers and Spouses Attend Republic Day Parade, Thrilled for Their First Experience

Synopsis
In a significant recognition, approximately 250 ASHA workers and their spouses have been invited as special guests to the Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path on January 26, marking a proud moment for them as they celebrate their contributions to healthcare in India.
Key Takeaways
- 250 ASHA workers invited with spouses as guests.
- Recognition of crucial contributions to healthcare.
- First-time experience for many attending the parade.
- Expressions of gratitude towards PM Modi.
- ASHA workers play a pivotal role in health initiatives.
New Delhi, Jan 25 (NationPress) In a significant gesture to recognize their invaluable contributions, approximately 250 ASHA workers have been invited along with their spouses as 'special guests' to the Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path on January 26.
These ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activists) workers, representing various states, are part of the 10,000 invitees this year, set to witness the Republic Day ceremony.
The Union Health Ministry hosted an event on Saturday, prior to the Republic Day celebrations, where they acknowledged the crucial role of ASHA workers, stating: “ASHAs are the backbone of health schemes in the country.”
The ASHA workers were deeply touched by this extraordinary gesture from the government.
In conversations with IANS, many expressed their excitement about attending their first Republic Day parade.
Seema, an ASHA worker from Rajasthan, shared: “I feel very proud that I along with my spouse have been invited as the chief guest for R-Day Parade. It validates our efforts towards reducing infant mortality and contributing to a TB-free India.”
Rajbala from Aligarh expressed her gratitude, stating: “I am very happy to watch the parade live this time instead of on TV.”
Ruby from Sonipat, overflowing with enthusiasm, noted: “We feel amazing to be here for the first time as chief guests invited by the Central government.”
Jaya Devi, based in Delhi, was surprised by the invitation: “It was unexpected, but we are excited to attend the Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path.”
Laxmi Devi, an ASHA worker from Gurugram, commented: “We are thrilled to be here, representing ASHA workers from across the nation, thanks to PM Narendra Modi.”
Suman from Bahadurgarh said: “Today, our dream has come true. We are especially grateful to PM Modi.”
Sangita from Bahadurgarh added: “We appreciate being invited as chief guests for the Republic Day parade, and thank PM Modi and the Chief Minister for their warm welcome.”
Meena from Itarsi expressed her gratitude: “We are thankful to the Prime Minister for this opportunity, which we never imagined would come our way.”
Dhanwati Sharma from Chhatarpur said: “I thank PM Modi for inviting my spouse and me to experience the parade firsthand.”
Raghuvar, another ASHA worker from Rajasthan, declared: “This invitation has boosted our morale, and we are committed to working even harder.”
There are currently over 10.29 lakh ASHA workers across the country, serving as the first line of contact in India’s healthcare system.
They play a vital role in numerous government health initiatives, including maternal and child healthcare, immunization, and supporting the Tuberculosis elimination program.