Mizoram state's power and electricity department minister R. Lalzirliana is getting accolades for lending a hand to the staff of a hospital where he has been admitted, along with his wife and son, for treatment after contracting COVID-19.
Setting an example of sorts, 71-year-old R. Lalzirliana, swept the the floor of the ward where he is recuperating from COVID-19. He and his 59-year-old wife were diagnosed with COVID-19 on 8 May while their son was diagnosed on 11 May. The three of them were earlier placed under home isolation but were shifted to Mizoram's dedicated COVID-19 hospital at Zoram Medical College on 12 May when the cabinet minister showed a sudden dip in his oxygen level.
"My motive in mopping the floor was not to embarrass the nurses or doctors but I want to educate and lead others by setting an example. Our health staff is overstretched and we must all do whatever we can do to help,"Lalzirliana was quoted by news agency PTI. "Sweeping, mopping the floors or performing household chores are no new jobs to me. I used to do so at home and other places when required to do so,"he said.
Mizoram state is known for rejecting ostentatious displays of wealth, and several ministers, unlike in other states, are routinely seen travelling in public transport or motor bikes, participating in community work and serving as cooks for community feasts during holidays like Christmas and New Year.
Lalzirliana also holds the portfolio of arts and culture, land resources, soil and water conservation in the present Mizo National Front government headed by Chief Zoramthanga.
The power minister had a message for the health workers too. He urged the medical staff and nurses involved in the management of COVID-19 patients to show politeness as their good care can have a positive impact upon the patients.