Open with caution: On Unlock 1 (The Hindu)

Mains Paper 2:Governance
Prelims level: Unlock 1 plan
Mains level: Steps to implement the Unlock 1 plan

Context:

• It is a truth universally acknowledged now that the severe restrictions to contain COVID-19 produced traumatic displacement of the weakest sections, while the check on infection spread was modest.
• The Centre’s move for a phased unlocking of public activity after the rigorous lockdown since March 25 sets the stage for people to resume their jobs and undertake some travel.

Implementation of the Unlock 1 plan:

• The ‘Unlock 1’ plan should ensure a careful restarting of activities, the most important of which is the delivery of goods and everyday services, including health services unrelated to COVID-19 infections.
• Latest data since the virus surfaced in the country show that 13 cities, including some of the biggest metros, host 70% of the cases, and many of the earlier restrictions will continue there.
• Retaining curbs on big gatherings, such as ......................................................................................................

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Effect of easing the lockdown:

• The severe economic contraction caused by loss of jobs requires governments to demonstrate as much commitment to mitigating misery as to containing infection.
• A genuinely universal PDS with adequate supplies of foodgrain, ensuring that no one is left behind, must be provided in all States. Cash supplements should reach all intended beneficiaries.
• This needs to be underscored, as surveys of workers who lost jobs after the pandemic indicate rising hunger levels and missing financial support.
• Some sections, such as Dalits, women, and low-skilled workers are even worse off. For the elderly, vulnerable individuals and children below 10, the Centre’s advice is to shelter in place even during the relaxation phase.
• This is medically sound advice, but cannot be done over a long period in big cities, as they cannot access goods and services at their doorstep, simply because they are classified as non-essential.
• The course of COVID-19 in the weeks ahead is by no means predictable, and the Centre recognises the possibility of new rural clusters emerging due to large-scale return of migrants.

Conclusion:

• Whether in the cities or the countryside, ‘Unlock 1’ must ....................................................................................

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Online Coaching for UPSC PRE Exam

General Studies Pre. Cum Mains Study Materials

Prelims Questions:

Q.1)With reference to the New Development Bank (NDB), consider the following statements:
1. Bank’s Articles of Agreement specify that all members of the United Nations could be members of the bank.
2. The share of the BRICS nations can never be less than 95% of voting power.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer.............................

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Mains Questions:
Q.1)What do you mean by the Unlock 1 plan? How it should be implemented? Does it have any negative impact on economy?