Covid-19 And The New Normal India

India is currently undergoing the fourth phase of nationwide lockdown which is slated to end on May 31.

- Ujjwal Kumar Dey

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had first given the clarion call for a nationwide lockdown on March 24 in order to limit the spread of the Novel Coronavirus. Since then the lockdown has been extended thrice and it can be further extended to June 15.

Lockdown for India is both a historic and necessary step for countering the spread of the virus. In the meantime, the government undertook many initiatives to defend the country against COVID-19.

An effective strategy is required for fighting COVID-19 for minimizing risks and maximizing results, and for that, it is crucial to identify the internal and external factors correctly.

A SWOT analysis gives an idea about India’s current position in tackling the pandemic. This analysis examines India’s Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats on the COVID front and aims to come out with recommendations that can help battle the crisis.

STRENGTHS

• Existing Infrastructures like schools, railway coaches, hotels, offices, etc. Was converted into Isolation wards.

• India is the largest producer and supplier of hydroxychloroquine, a prospective drug for treating COVID-19.

• Rapid measures were undertaken such as imposing travel restrictions and lockdown that enabled India to balance its supply and demand.

• All domestic and international travelers and offices are mandated to undergo a compulsory thermal screening check.

• Transparent communication by the leadership led to compliance of requisite directions given to the masses to slow down the spread of COVID-19.

• The medical and health system is gradually gearing up to take on the new challenge.