New Delhi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has hailed the work done by Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), Auxiliary Nurses and Midwives (ANMs) and Anganwadi workers in fighting coronavirus.

He said that as a nation, "we owe them and their families a huge debt of gratitude for the tremendous personal sacrifices each of them is making".

Rahul Gandhi's open letter dated April 9 to these workers lauded their dedication and courage for putting their lives at risk on the frontlines of India's battle against the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The greatest form of patriotism is to serve our country in her hour of need. Our community workers are true patriots, our unsung heroes, who toil tirelessly away from the limelight, to keep our communities safe in the midst of this grave crisis," wrote the former Congress President.

"I salute each and every community worker for their service to the nation and pray that they and their families will remain safe through this pandemic."

"In an environment where fear and misinformation pose a bigger danger than the virus itself, community workers have a key role to play in educating people about the dangers of COVID-19 and the manner in which it is transmitted," Rahul Gandhi pointed out.

Rahul said that he hoped when this crisis is over their exemplary services will serve as a catalyst for deep-rooted changes in their work conditions.