“I represent one of the largest constituencies of Indian-Americans in the United States Congress, and I grieve with so many of my constituents as we watch India grapple with a rapidly worsening COVID crisis. In conversations with Embassy officials and family members at home in Michigan, the situation is unbelievably dire. Yesterday’s’ announcement from the White House is indeed promising and I applaud the Biden Administration for their rapid administration of aid. The United States will be sending PPE, ventilators, rapid testing kits and raw materials so that India can ramp up their vaccine production. There is concern about sending vaccines from the U.S., as their cold sensitivity could render them useless upon arrival, given the distance between our two countries. Sending raw vaccine materials is critical so that Indian manufacturers can keep producing their own highly effective Covishield vaccine. I will continue to do whatever I can to support the Biden Administration as they accelerate aid to India.”
“It has been well over a year since we first encountered COVID-19 in Michigan and with the current surge also happening at home, it can be difficult to stay hopeful. I urge my constituents to continue to wear a mask, socially distance, and get vaccinated. During challenging times like these, I lean on my faith and am praying daily for all of my Indian-American constituents who are worried about loved ones overseas and I am praying daily for all of my fellow Michiganders as we continue to live with this deadly virus. I will continue to use my platform as an elected official to encourage proper health guidelines of social distancing, wearing of masks, and regular washing of hands.”
Original source can be found here.
