BPSC Mains PYQs

India’s Response to COVID-19 and the Role of “Make in India” Concept

1. Overview of the COVID-19 Situation in India

• India, being the second-worst affected nation globally during the COVID-19 pandemic, faced tremendous challenges in managing the spread of the virus. A fast vaccination process, coupled with strict social distancing and mask-wearing guidelines, became the primary strategy to control the outbreak.

2. Role of “Make in India” in Tackling COVID-19

• Boosting Domestic Vaccine Production: The “Make in India” initiative played a crucial role by enabling India to rapidly scale up vaccine production. India became one of the largest producers of vaccines, with companies like Serum Institute of India and Bharat Biotech manufacturing millions of doses, ensuring that both domestic and international needs were met.
• Supporting Local PPE Manufacturing: The pandemic triggered a surge in demand for personal protective equipment (PPE), masks, and ventilators. The government quickly ramped up domestic manufacturing under the “Make in India” initiative, reducing dependency on imports and ensuring timely availability.

Example: The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) developed and produced critical medical supplies such as ventilators and face shields, contributing to India’s self-reliance during the crisis.

3. Fast Vaccination Process

• The vaccination drive was launched with the goal of covering a significant portion of the population in a short time frame. India’s vaccination drive, one of the largest globally, was powered by CoWIN technology to efficiently manage registrations, appointments, and monitoring.
• India’s Contribution to Global Vaccine Supply: Through the COVAX initiative, India also supplied vaccines to over 100 countries, underscoring its leadership in global health diplomacy.

Example: As of 2021, India had administered over a billion vaccine doses, marking a significant achievement in public health.

4. Social Distancing and Mask-Wearing Campaign

• The government enforced lockdowns and curfews, along with widespread campaigns to promote mask-wearing and social distancing. This was critical in curbing the virus’s spread, especially in densely populated areas.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: The government used multiple platforms, including radio, television, and social media, to educate citizens on hygiene practices, ensuring compliance with safety protocols.

5. Conclusion

India’s response to COVID-19 showcased a combination of “Make in India” principles and quick action to manage a public health emergency. The nation not only focused on internal solutions, like domestic vaccine production and medical equipment manufacturing but also played a pivotal role in aiding the global fight against the pandemic. With these strategies, India showed resilience and self-reliance, which were crucial in overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic.