The single mother from Nilgiri district honoured for her courageous work during the Wayanad landslide disaster
Team Clarion
CHENNAI – Sabina, a nurse from Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri district, was awarded the prestigious Kalpana Chawla Award for courage and bravery by the Tamil Nadu government during the 78th Independence Day celebrations at Fort St. George, here on Thursday. Chief Minister MK Stalin presented the award, recognising her valiant efforts during the Wayanad landslide in Kerala.
Sabina, who works as a nurse for an NGO in Gudalur, Nilgiri district, was part of the medical team deployed to provide aid to those affected by the landslide. Speaking to the media about the challenging situation, Sabina said, “After the disaster in Wayanad, our company sent us to help. I was badly injured in the landslide-ravaged area, but I continued to help the injured and affected people. We carried medical first aid kits to treat people across a swollen river.”
Recalling her experience, Sabina shared a particularly tense moment during the rescue operation. “While crossing the river, army personnel told me not to look down. They asked about male nurses, but I insisted on going myself. I treated and saved 30 to 35 wounded people who were there. Despite the dangers, I never felt fear – even when seeing people badly injured and covered in blood.”
Sabina has been working in the Nilgiri district for three years, where she has also been involved in treating cancer patients. The award recognises her dedication to her work and fearless approach to humanitarian service. She was humble in accepting the award. “I didn’t expect this recognition. Seeing the impact in Wayanad, I believe people should be more patient and humanitarian. We are already serving those in need, and I will continue to do so.”