From the land of caribou

THE ARTIC is at the other corner of the world. But 14 persons travelled all the way from the North Pole, particularly Alaska, for more than 27 hours to be here, in Chennai.

So what drew them out of their frigid climes to a city that is notorious for its torrid summer?. The countrywide pulse polio immunisation programme which is billed as the largest people's movement in the country since Independence.

The 14 member team of Rotarians will be closely watching the fourth and final phase of the polio programme to be held with the support of the Rotary movement on January 23.

Introducing the team, Ms. Rekha Shetty, District Governor, Rotary District 3230, said they will study the programme in which a huge volunteer army, mobilised by Rotary will aid the State in administering vaccine and IEC activities.

Led by Ms. Allana Wenholz Bergh, District Governor, D5010, the team will keep a close watch on the way polio immunisation will be conducted in Rotary district 3230. ``We want to learn from the experience of Rotarians here. Of course we will help wherever we can, but the thrust is rather on learning from here'' says Ms. Bergh, who appeared excited about the experience, 24 hours after she landed in Chennai.

She is accompanied by senior Rotarians from the same district, but with varied interests.

There are bankers, telecom professionals, social service entrepreneurs and sports enthusiasts.

(Ramya Kannan)

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