Our Correspondent
Kohima, April 18 (EMN): The nationwide lockdown is affecting everybody but some are trying to make best use of the free time, while some are hit hard by boredom and others worried about their business.
On completion of the 21-day nationwide lockdown on April 14, the government of India has extended the exercise to May 3.
Eastern Mirror spoke to some people in the state’s capital town Kohima to find out how people are spending their time during the lockdown period. It was found out that socialites are ‘bored’ with markets, parks, stadiums, and other public places being shut down, while some professionals take it as an opportunity to work from home.
A working mother said that the lockdown has affected her mental health as she was worried about the wellbeing of her children who are residing outside the state. She however said that her family is getting ample time at home to cook meals and avoid junk foods.
Entrepreneur Vikho said: “This lockdown has badly affected my start-up as mine being a hospitality industry. Yet I’m making use of this lockdown to rejuvenate my ideas and read books to motivate myself.” He also said that he is having a quality time with his family.
However, an “alcoholic” has a different story to day. Atsung told this newspaper humorously: “The warehouse that I get my regular peg has run out of stock last week and I really had a hard time to adapt to the situation for the past few days…(smiles), if the lockdown continues I’ll have to give up.”
He also revealed that he is getting a better diet and that his family is having a good time.
With schools and colleges being closed, some students spend their time on social media, while others watch movies, read books and pursue their hobbies.
Lokpong Phom, a college student who stays in a rented house in Kohima with his brother and two sisters, said, “I’ve made a routine of my own. Sometimes I watch movies and read books.” He added that he gives time to connect with his parents and friend who are miles away.
Another student of Kohima Science College said that the college is providing notes and materials through social media and also learning from online tutorials at home.
A young man, Adu, who works in corporate sector, said that he has been working from home since the lockdown. He said that working from home is time saving.
Meanwhile, the lockdown seems to have taught people to be more humane, as many NGOs and individuals had come forward to help those affected by the lockdown. It has also instilled basic practice of hygiene like hand washing and keeping one’s environment and surroundings clean.