Shillong, June 25: Given the active participation, cooperation and responsibilities of the traditional Dorbar Shnongs during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) on Friday passed an official resolution to urge the state government to provide special financial assistance to the Dorbar Shnongs to aid their efforts in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic in the state.

The resolution tabled by the Chief Executive Member (CEM), Titosstar Well Chyne was also supported by the opposition members during the summer session of the Council.

“This House hereby resolve to urge upon the state government to provide special financial assistance to these dorbar shnong through the KHADC as an incentive for their role in combating this pandemic,” Chyne said.

He said the dorbar shnong had over the years assisted the state government in the implementation of various state and central welfare schemes at the village level.

The role of the dorbar shnong in the fight against the pandemic from maintaining quarantine and isolation centres to regulating SOPs and creating awareness of the vaccination drive undertaken has had a positive impact in containing the spread of COVID-19 in the community.

“Their role and responsibilities extend to providing assistance to the needy during lockdown periods from their own resources and contribution of the residents of the village,” he said adding that the dorbar shnong had diligently performed all the duties and responsibilities entrusted upon them without any assistance or recognition from the state government.

The KHADC chief further urged the members to extend all possible help to the dorbar shnong especially those who are setting up community isolation centres for COVID positive cases.

He also informed that the council has so far spent Rs 19 lakh as financial assistance to such community quarantine centres, which are getting Rs 1,000 each.