Heroic feat during Cyclone Dana: Woman ASHA in Odisha gifted PMAY Residence

Bhubaneswar, Oct 25: A woman Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA), Sibani Mandal in Odisha has been gifted with a PMAY residence for her heroic deed she undertook in serving an elderly woman carry to a safer place during the wrath of the Cyclone Dana.

With the approval of the Chief Minister,the Kendrapara District Administration on Saturday issued the work order of a house under the PMAY.

 Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday had made a significant gesture of appreciation towards the ASHA worker in Kendrapada district, recognizing her heroic efforts during Cyclone Dana. 

The Chief Minister issued an order for the allotment of a house to Sibani Mandal, an ASHA worker from Khasmunda village, as a testament to her unwavering commitment to her community.

During a phone conversation with Sibani, the Chief Minister expressed his admiration for her dedication, particularly highlighting her remarkable act of carrying an elderly woman affected by paralysis to safety. This selfless act occurred during the evacuation drive on Thursday, just before the cyclone hit the Odisha coast.

Sibani shared with the Chief Minister that she had not only helped the elderly woman but had also carried seven other adults and two pregnant women to the cyclone shelter, ensuring their safety in the face of the impending storm. Her actions inspired many in her village and underscored the critical role ASHA workers play in times of crisis.

Chief Minister Majhi commended Sibani for her extraordinary dedication and humanity during the challenging circumstances brought on by Cyclone Dana. “May Lord Jagannath bless you always. May you continue to help others in times of need,” he conveyed, expressing how deeply moved both he and the government were by her selfless actions.

In a further inquiry, the Chief Minister learned that Sibani lacked a proper house. Recognizing the urgency of her situation, he promptly directed the Rajnagar Block Development Officer to provide her with housing.

Accordingly, ASHA Sibani Mandal was allotted the work order for building a house of her own with the financial assistance under the PMAY.