Sphere India Interfaith Humanitarian Alliance is an interfaith humanitarian platform for COVID-19 response convened by Sphere India, in partnership with WHO, UNICEF, World Vision and HCL Foundation.
Shimla Time
A webinar on Interfaith Humanitarian Alliance was organised by Sphere India, in collaborative partnership with UNICEF, WHO, World Vision India, and HCL Foundation. The plenary session had Interfaith leaders from all religions come together to Facilitate to Reduce the Risk of Vaccine Hesitancy and Promote Covid-19 Appropriate Behaviour.
The faith leaders addressed the need of the hour, that is, to follow Government and Health Organisation protocols on Sanitation and Hygiene, dispel rumours about vaccinations and continue taking necessary precautions even after getting vaccinated. They also underlined the importance of positive attitude which will lead to positive mental as well as physical health.
Dr. Henna Hejazi, Senior Program Manager, Sphere India in the Welcome Address, saluted the spirit of solidarity of faith based organizations and faith leaders who play a critical role in bringing communities together, appealing to them to follow COVID-19 appropriate behavior and helping in minimizing anxiety among people.
Rev David Luke, Manager – Faith & Development, World Vision India, in his KeyNote Address, underlined the responsibilities that the Faith leaders have on their shoulders and the appropriate measures they need to exercise for their own safety and the wellbeing of their followers.
Swami Tanmahimananda, Secretary of Ramakrishna Mission, Shimla, emphasized spreading awareness on the benefits of the vaccine, dispelling rumors and creating a positive mental attitude to avoid a situation of panic.
Sister Ritu, of Brahma Kumaris, underlined the need for behavioral change in people which can be brought about by religious leaders. “The need of the hours is to synthesize spiritualism with science, to make people embrace change and act accordingly.”
Karan Singh, from Gurudwara Sahib, Manikaran, highlighted the importance of education in overcoming the challenges of the pandemic. “Lack of knowledge leads to fear of the unknown that creates panic.” He stated that education, in the long run, will help in controlling stigma and in defeating the pandemic.
Fr Viney Sunny, Priest in-charge of The Church of Saint John in the Wilderness, Palampur, underlined the responsibility of religious leaders to spread awareness and to provide love and support to the affected.
Shah Deen, member of Ahmadiya Muslim Jamaat, Una stated the importance of following the protocols set by government and medical community. “Even post vaccination, one should not get careless and continue to take all necessary precautions.”
Acharya Lobsang Negi, priest at Chhos Khorling Monastery, Reckong Peo, focused on the need to have a positive attitude for a healthy mind. “Good mental health is necessary for good physical health”.
In conclusion, Sphere India listed key actions for the Way Forward and suggested that plenary sessions can be taken further to the grassroots level in Himachal Pradesh, with faith leaders urging their followers to promote adherence to Covid-19 safety protocols and timely vaccinations.