THE GIST of Editorial for UPSC Exams : 16 April 2020 (A narrowing window : On extension of lockdown (The Hindu))

A narrowing window : On extension of lockdown (The Hindu)

Mains Paper 2:Governance 
Prelims level: Confirmatory test
Mains level: Implications of the extensions of the lockdown 

Context:

• The Centre has accepted the view of several States to extend the national lockdown for the novel coronavirus until May 3. 

Background:

• The decision provides comfort and continuity to those in charge of containing the pandemic, but it is a small window within which an orderly exit must be planned. 
• While announcing the extension, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke of incentivising areas that avert a spike in cases — over 10,000 nationally — through rigorous enforcement of the restrictions. 
• These areas are to be allowed limited exemptions in activity after April 20, once they pass the ‘litmus test’ and are not at risk of becoming hotspots. 

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Need affordable confirmatory test:

• Such a scheme naturally presumes that everyone can get a free or highly affordable confirmatory test for viral infection or recovery, which could place them in a green territory. 
• Again, this has to be aligned with well-recognised protocols on healthy behaviour to stop new infections.

Fill the gaps:

• The Centre’s lockdown is the most rigorous globally, but it has witnessed severe gaps in implementation. 
• The Home Ministry’s original 21-day order and subsequent enabling amendments on farming had clear clauses, many States did not abide by them. 
• The Union Home Secretary has had to restate the order’s provisions allowing inter- and intra-State movement of goods vehicles. 
• Active follow-up with State governments and clear instructions to enforcement agencies are necessary to help the public adhere to a curfew. 

Intentions translate into results:

• The Prime Minister, who has affirmed the need to make full use of the rabi harvest, must ensure that intentions translate into results, and produce reaches the market. 
• Failed communication — States are partly responsible — has resulted in distressing instances of arbitrary and often violent policing.
• Further extensions of a lockdown appear less and less feasible, as pressure builds up in an economy rendered moribund by the coronavirus. 

Impact on migrant workers: 

• Millions of workers are already dependent on meagre income substitution measures and food donations, and many face escalating private debt. 
• The Finance Ministry’s welfare schemes need to be reviewed, and enhanced relief provided to all workers rendered unemployed through funds infusion and provision of food for at least six months. 
• Those who have lost jobs, and senior citizens, should be able to enrol in the PDS online immediately. 
• A gradual reopening of activity after May 3, going beyond essential services will require classification of infection risk for various groups, such as school and college students, teachers, and workers. 

Conclusion: 

• The reality of COVID-19 is that there cannot be a return to normal overnight, and governments must plan for a sequential restoration of activity. 
• The effort should be to enable the workforce, ensuring its health and safety.

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General Studies Pre. Cum Mains Study Materials

Prelims Questions:

Q.1)With reference to the KendriyaSainik Board, consider the following statements:
1. It is the apex body under the Department of Ex Servicemen Welfare, Ministry of Defence.
2. Its main role is to ensure implementation of Government policies for the welfare of Ex-Servicemen and their families. 

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) None of the above

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

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Mains Questions:
Q.1) What are the advantages and disadvantages of the extension of the lockdown?