"India's poor pushed to live in trees for isolation" - This headline shook me

If you're reading this now on LinkedIn, you are likely to be one of the "better off" and very fortunate (like me) to be able to "social-distance" and stay at home in a reasonably decent/ spacious flat or houses (am sure there are a few mansions!) - away from others.

Millions of others from countries which economies have suddenly turned off the lights aren't so lucky. The economic correction will make the poor, even poorer. Whilst many of us, friends, family members and contacts may be whinging about how miserable it is to stay at home, or discuss what Netflix films you're going to watch, do take into comfort that you have a home to isolate yourself in.

As reported in Reuters, 'lacking space in their homes, some villagers in India's West Bengal who need to self-isolate themselves are taking to the trees to keep their families safe.' 

Watch the video below if you had missed it:

This is by no means about singling India out as a country and am almost sure this is not happening everywhere in the country. Scenarios like this are severely under-reported. WEF data shows that there are 900 million at risk in 50 of the world's least developed economies

Even though most scenarios or news point to citizens at distress from "third world or less developed countries, be mindful that someone near you or in your very own family or neighborhood might be suffering badly from these unprecedented and challenging times.

You may be feeling stressed and cooped-up at home - but I guarantee you there are others feeling worse than you.

Take a moment this week to reach out to someone in need or perhaps consider making a pledge or donation to support critical or essential services for your local neighbourhood or district. I found out about giving.sg (based in Singapore) this week and have made a small pledge to 3 charities to support their work during these tough times:

Rather than 'hope and pray' (which is critical, of course), perhaps all of us, who are more fortunate, can play a more pro-active role in helping virtually.

Let's #StayHome and #FlattenTheCurve. #SGUnited