Different phases of the lockdown brought many changes in our lives, most we weren't prepared for. A life defined a new normal, things that we took for granted became essentials, and frontline workers became our real-life heroes.

We are witnessing unusual and uncertain times when everyone has come together to win the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Different phases of the lockdown brought many changes in our lives, most we weren't prepared for, from maintaining social distancing, keeping self-hygiene, and to be grateful for those who continue to help us stay safe during this pandemic. A life defined a new normal, things that we took for granted became essentials, and frontline workers became our real-life heroes.

People, when asked to stay at home recognized that home delivery of their daily needs is a safe way to get what they need while staying safe at home. People showed their utmost appreciation for the delivery and fulfillment center associates, who emerged as heroes in many ways, especially for citizens in various living situations - be it expectant women, a new mother, parents with young children, those with elders at home and people with different needs, to name a few.

Customers across the country thanked medical staff, emergency services, sanitation workers, and delivery teams of retail and online stores “thank you @amazonindia and your delivery boys. Couldn’t have done this quarantine thing without you.” said Pamela. Some were grateful that they could remotely send groceries to elders or parents living away. “@amazonIN I needed some groceries sent to my mum. I placed an order yesterday and was delivered today. Very thankful to you for having delivered the essentials in these tough times. And a big shout out to the delivery guys. You rock!” exclaimed Janet.

The delivery associates were also aware of their responsibilities and knew that they were working in a safe and hygienic environment. Amazon India says that many people in its fulfilment network, like the pickers and packers, delivery associates, and transportation partners overcame multiple challenges to come to work.

Sandeep Rakhade is one of the many frontline heroes in Amazon India’s fulfillment network who has shown exemplary dedication and ownership during this on-going crisis. Sandeep’s wife gave birth to a baby boy during the lockdown. As soon as his wife was discharged from the hospital, Sandeep was back at work within 48 hours at his delivery station, because he was very aware of the critical role he played in making timely delivery of customer orders possible. Sandeep managed to stand beside his loved ones when they needed him the most and at the same time cater to the needs of thousands of customers who were dependent on Amazon for their daily needs.

Most of us continue to grapple with the new reality, however, things have not changed much for Naseerbano, a Station Support Associate in Amazon India. As a person who was deaf, her family was apprehensive of Naseerbano stepping out to work during the lockdown, but she was undeterred and took on this new challenge with a smile. She learned about all the necessary safety measures through video tutorials in sign language and from her supervisor. She reassured her family about the preventive health and safety measures at her delivery station and continued to fulfill her responsibilities. Naseerbano rose to the occasion knowing the role she could play to help fellow citizens during the pandemic. There are many similar inspiring stories of such heroes in the different parts of the country that we must celebrate.

As we are at the stage of getting back to normal there are many restrictions have been lifted but the need to maintain social distancing will continue to be an integral part of our lives. The importance of home delivery will continue to increase and so will be our respect and appreciation for these associates. Because what keeps these associates going is the measures taken by organizations for the health & safety and the encouragement shown by customers. It’s in such perilous times, that it’s important to highlight the exemplary work being done by all these associates and continue to look for the silver lining.