That work is worship is exemplified by two Anganwadi Workers of Ralegada gram panchayat in the Swabhiman area of Malkangiri district.
To distribute food for children and carry out health checkup of pregnant women, Pramila Pelmel and Hemalata Sikha cross the swelling Nerudapali nullah dangerously every year during rainy season. They tie dried bottle gourd shells to their waists to remain afloat and cross the nullah. While Pramila works at the Suapali Anganwadi Centre, Hemalata is engaged at the Nedupali Anganwadi Centre.
“Every year, we cross the nullah dangerously due to poor road connectivity to the area. We put our lives at stake and cross the nullah to serve the people,” said Pramila.
Hemalata also echoed similar views and said the odds cannot deter them from performing their duties.