Context: Successful management of COVID-19 Pandemic by India and the way to deal with a pandemic in future.
Factors that helped in the successful management of COVID-19 Pandemic by India
Nationwide lockdown: It helped cut the chain of transmission, saving thousands of lives across the country.
Indefatigable efforts of frontline COVID warriors: Doctors, para-medical staff, health and sanitation workers, ASHA workers and scientists helped to save precious lives.
Unity in fighting the pandemic: All states and the leaders of political parties rose above all differences to serve the people in this unprecedented global health crisis.
Role played by sectors of the economy:
Role of agriculture: India’s agriculture and allied activities grew at 3.4% during 2020-21.
Manufacturers upheld the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat: They worked at breakneck speed to meet the need for life-saving supplies like sanitisers, facial masks etc.
Stellar role played by media: in educating, informing and enlightening people by working on a 24×7 basis to keep the country updated on emerging developments with regard to COVID-19.
Spirit of collaboration with other countries: This collective vision and effort, marked by resilience and transparency, helped us to achieve among the lowest fatality rates in the world.
Way forward: for dealing with a pandemic in future.
Adopt a multi-pronged and long-term strategy: in developing pandemic responses on a global scale through shared resources.
People should stay active physically and mentally: to
Reduce stress level: E.g. through Yoga and meditation.
Boost immunity: E.g. by moving towards a nutritious, balanced diet.
Don’t lower the guard: We must continue to ad- here to the essential practices of washing hands frequently, maintaining social distancing, wearing face masks and avoiding crowds and gatherings.
Awareness, alertness and prompt action will help minimise the threat posed by the virus and save lives as we move forward into the challenges of a post-COVID world.