Kasganj (Uttar Pradesh), Jun 25 (IANS): A 96-year-old woman became the face of vaccination drive in villages in Kasganj district when she took the jab and inspired others to shun hesitancy towards the much-needed vaccine.

A joint team of administration, police and health department officials reached the Nagla Kadheri village in the district to vaccinate residents but they faced stiff resistance and most villagers hid in their fields while others locked themselves in their homes.

Aadhaar Kumari, 96, however readily agreed to get vaccinated.

After getting the jab, she called out to other villagers and convinced them to take the vaccine.

Tehsildar Ajay Kumar Yadav said, "Her appeal worked like magic and in the next few hours, all 176 residents over the age of 18 in the village had taken their shot."

Superintendent of Soron block community health centre, Harish Kumar Singh said, "We are thankful to Aadhaar Kumari for helping us out. It was on her appeal that residents voluntarily took their first dose."

Aadhaar Kumari, who lives alone since her son abandoned her years ago, said, "I wanted to set an example instead of giving sermons about the vaccine. I am not educated but I know that this will help save people."