Italy announced that it has more number of ventilators than COVID-19 patients, Italy has around 2,573 patients under intensive unit and it has 2,659 ventilators available. Watch this video to know more.

Italy reports more ventilators than COVID-19 patients under intensive care units

Oxford University is developing a vaccine for the treatment for COVID-19, human trials for vaccine will begin from April 23. Watch this video to know more.

UK to start human trials of potential COVID-19 vaccine

Government of India has correctly stated that the decision to relax or totally lift the lockdown has to be taken by balancing the compulsive need of two factors namely lives and livelihood. Obviously, this view implies that while lives are very important, the economic factors reflecting on the livelihood are no less important.

Lifting of Lockdown Necessary :

While no one is able to predict as to when the COVID 19 crisis would end, the ground reality is that the lockdown cannot be prolonged indefinitely, as the continued lockdown is bound to upset the economy of the country to an unacceptable level, with job losses in massive scale and other disastrous consequences.

In such circumstances, selective lifting of lockdown&nbsp;has become an absolute necessity and an inevitable measure.

Present Situation&nbsp;:

It has been only partial lockdown in India so far, with the agricultural operations being allowed to continue. &nbsp;For supply-side management, the government has permitted transportation of essential and non-essential goods, thus ensuring that the day to day life of the people would not be disrupted.

Further, groceries, ration and medical shops apart from the distribution of newspapers, milk etc. have been allowed to operate&nbsp;

Several pharmaceutical units, detergent units etc and the raw material units supplying inputs for such industries, which are needed for fighting against COVID 19 crisis, have been operating partially.

Ships carrying crude oil have been allowed to dock at the port and the transportation of crude oil to the destination is taking place.

A significant achievement, so far, in controlling the virus spread has happened in the lockdown period, which is only partial and not total.

Limitation of Lockdown :

The realisation is gradually setting in that while lockdown is a very important and necessary measure, it cannot be the be-all and end-all for solving the COVID 19 crisis. The ultimate solution for the crisis can come only by developing an appropriate vaccine, which is at least a few months away.

Governments have done their level best to implement the lockdown measures and it appears that it cannot be more strict and effective in future than at the present time.

It appears that the benefits of lockdown have already reached an optimum level, as far as, social distancing is concerned.

Need for Cost-Benefit Decision:

The decision on relaxation/lifting of lockdown based on lives and livelihood concept is essentially a cost-benefit decision.

The advocates of full lockdown say that lifting lockdown is calculated risk, while those who advocate lifting lockdown term it as necessary. The moderates may call it as a necessary evil.

Obviously, the government is hesitant to fully open the economy, as it fears that the situation may go out of control. Such fear of the government appears to be a case of overreaction.

A large section of the population is now well aware of the dangerous consequences of COVID 19 and importance of social distancing and hygiene, particularly since every human being has the instinct to protect himself or herself from dangerous conditions.

In India’s population of around 1300 million, only microscopic number of people have violated the lockdown restrictions in the last few weeks in isolated spots.

Government, by continuing the strict enforcement measures and with public and media support, should be able to control such rogue elements to ensure social distancing and other safety measures to prevent spread of the virus

If the government would continue with the enforcement of social distancing measures, then the violation after lifting the lockdown is likely to be only as much as it is happening now with the lockdown in force.

Steps Needed :

While some hotspots of virus spread have been identified, the present lockdown restrictions should continue in such hotspots, which should be sealed until the situation would improve.

To prevent further spread of the virus, it is essential that some sectors such as railways, public transport, cinema theatres, public parks, malls, places of worship should not be allowed to operate and activities such as mass meetings and social gatherings should be banned till the situation would improve to a desirable level, as their operations would certainly make the social distancing impossible.

The manufacturing and services activities should be allowed to resume as early as possible to ensure that the state of the national economy would be sustained and economic slow down would be prevented.

The main issue in resuming such economic activities relates to the transportation sector. While interstate truck transportation is already in operation, in the absence of a mass transportation facility, most workers and employees will not be able to attend work spots

To overcome the transportation issue to some extent, the taxis and private cars should be allowed to ply with a maximum of two passengers in the rear and two-wheelers without pillion rider should be permitted. Domestic airlines should be allowed to operate at 50 per cent&nbsp;capacity to maintain social distance and each traveller being asked to produce a health certificate.&nbsp;

These measures would not entirely solve the mass transportation issue but this would only be a temporary arrangement until the overall situation would improve and has to be put up with.&nbsp;

While permitting the economic activities to resume, the government should insist that the individuals and organisations would maintain social distancing and observe hygiene conditions. Employers and employees should ensure this and any violation should be punished.

A Pragmatic View :

Lifting lockdown and at the same time ensuring that social distancing and hygienic conditions would be maintained, is the ideal way out in the present. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Government of India has correctly stated that the decision to relax or totally lift the lockdown has to be taken by balancing the compulsive need of two factors namely lives and livelihood.

Government of India has correctly stated that the decision to relax or totally lift the lockdown has to be taken by balancing the compulsive need of two factors namely lives and livelihood. Obviously, this view implies that while lives are very important, the economic factors reflecting on the livelihood are no less important. Lifting of Lockdown Necessary : While no one is able to predict as to when the COVID 19 crisis would end, the ground reality is that the lockdown cannot be prolonged indefinitely, as the continued lockdown is bound to upset the economy of the country to an unacceptable level, with job losses in massive scale and other disastrous consequences. In such circumstances, selective lifting of lockdown has become an absolute necessity and an inevitable measure. Present Situation : It has been only partial lockdown in India so far, with the agricultural operations being allowed to continue. For supply-side management, the government has permitted transportation of essential and non-essential goods, thus ensuring that the day to day life of the people would not be disrupted. Further, groceries, ration and medical shops apart from the distribution of newspapers, milk etc. have been allowed to operate Several pharmaceutical units, detergent units etc and the raw material units supplying inputs for such industries, which are needed for fighting against COVID 19 crisis, have been operating partially. Ships carrying crude oil have been allowed to dock at the port and the transportation of crude oil to the destination is taking place. A significant achievement, so far, in controlling the virus spread has happened in the lockdown period, which is only partial and not total. Limitation of Lockdown : The realisation is gradually setting in that while lockdown is a very important and necessary measure, it cannot be the be-all and end-all for solving the COVID 19 crisis. The ultimate solution for the crisis can come only by developing an appropriate vaccine, which is at least a few months away. Governments have done their level best to implement the lockdown measures and it appears that it cannot be more strict and effective in future than at the present time. It appears that the benefits of lockdown have already reached an optimum level, as far as, social distancing is concerned. Need for Cost-Benefit Decision: The decision on relaxation/lifting of lockdown based on lives and livelihood concept is essentially a cost-benefit decision. The advocates of full lockdown say that lifting lockdown is calculated risk, while those who advocate lifting lockdown term it as necessary. The moderates may call it as a necessary evil. Obviously, the government is hesitant to fully open the economy, as it fears that the situation may go out of control. Such fear of the government appears to be a case of overreaction. A large section of the population is now well aware of the dangerous consequences of COVID 19 and importance of social distancing and hygiene, particularly since every human being has the instinct to protect himself or herself from dangerous conditions. In India’s population of around 1300 million, only microscopic number of people have violated the lockdown restrictions in the last few weeks in isolated spots. Government, by continuing the strict enforcement measures and with public and media support, should be able to control such rogue elements to ensure social distancing and other safety measures to prevent spread of the virus If the government would continue with the enforcement of social distancing measures, then the violation after lifting the lockdown is likely to be only as much as it is happening now with the lockdown in force. Steps Needed : While some hotspots of virus spread have been identified, the present lockdown restrictions should continue in such hotspots, which should be sealed until the situation would improve. To prevent further spread of the virus, it is essential that some sectors such as railways, public transport, cinema theatres, public parks, malls, places of worship should not be allowed to operate and activities such as mass meetings and social gatherings should be banned till the situation would improve to a desirable level, as their operations would certainly make the social distancing impossible. The manufacturing and services activities should be allowed to resume as early as possible to ensure that the state of the national economy would be sustained and economic slow down would be prevented. The main issue in resuming such economic activities relates to the transportation sector. While interstate truck transportation is already in operation, in the absence of a mass transportation facility, most workers and employees will not be able to attend work spots To overcome the transportation issue to some extent, the taxis and private cars should be allowed to ply with a maximum of two passengers in the rear and two-wheelers without pillion rider should be permitted. Domestic airlines should be allowed to operate at 50 per cent capacity to maintain social distance and each traveller being asked to produce a health certificate. These measures would not entirely solve the mass transportation issue but this would only be a temporary arrangement until the overall situation would improve and has to be put up with. While permitting the economic activities to resume, the government should insist that the individuals and organisations would maintain social distancing and observe hygiene conditions. Employers and employees should ensure this and any violation should be punished. A Pragmatic View : Lifting lockdown and at the same time ensuring that social distancing and hygienic conditions would be maintained, is the ideal way out in the present. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Coronavirus outbreak: What should be India's lockdown exit strategy?

The state of Missouri in the United States sued the Chinese government over the novel coronavirus outbreak, citing it as "an appalling campaign of deceit". The civil lawsuit was filed on Tuesday in a federal court by GOP state Attorney General Eric Schmitt.

US state sues China over alleged COVID-19 coverup

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan have tested negative for the novel coronavirus on Wednesday, days after meeting a well-known philanthropist who has been detected positive for the COVID-19 infection.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan tests negative of COVID-19

Singapore is now witnessing resurgence of the coronavirus, in the form of a second wave. Watch this video to know more.

Singapore braces for second wave of COVID-19

The idea of using traffic model in India to restore economic activity at this stage has the potential to backfire badly. With a total number of cases increasing steadily on a daily basis without any sign of reaching the downward slope of the growth curve poses the question: Are we in a rush to jumpstart the economy?&nbsp;

The amount of loss has been already estimated to be $98 billion during the first round of 21 days lockdown. In forex market, the Indian currency is almost in its coma as it has attained the lowest value against the dollar in its own history. In fact, one rupee is now even less than one US cent! The scenario is no doubt disheartening and significant. Given the gloom scenario if we imagine that there is a sudden outburst of the contagion effect in a very robust manner, then what will be the scenario in India? Probably we will be frightened to even visualise.

This can ensue since the orange can switch its colour to red in a matter of few days and same goes for green. A feeble laxity of social distancing can have a huge multiplier effect on the toll of cases as well as on the number of deaths. Amidst the not so picturesque view, the partial lockdown may turn out to be a premature decision. The social marginal benefit of partial relaxation lies in the fact that (primarily) rural economic activities during partial relaxation will self-sustain themselves to some extent. There is no doubt that it will bring some breeze into the system. However, the social marginal cost may outweigh the benefits. Costs include the following but are not limited to these.

First, we need to realise that there is still no vaccine and therapy for the deadly coronavirus. Medical experts around the world have already warned that India will probably see the highest surge during the end of April/first week of May. This can be coupled with the lack of health infrastructure in India, where we allocate a mere 1.28 per cent of GDP - less than even Nepal, Srilanka, Indonesia, Bhutan to name a few - and have even less than 50,000 ventilators as of date.&nbsp;

We have already seen that despite allocating much higher funds, having better health infrastructure and a greater number of trained doctors to combat the scenario by advanced economies - they failed to keep the fight within the control. Thus, the number of possible deaths can steadily intensify in India with partial relaxation of lockdown and almost nonexistent world-class health infrastructure to contest COVID 19. As a part of a negative externality, the increased number of deaths can produce havoc socio-economic panic, which we do not want at any cost at this stage of the battle.&nbsp;

Second, the potential pandemonium due to deaths will create an immense amount of pressure on medical supplies which is already facing a bottleneck. The overall aggregate supply will further experience a very strong negative supply shock triggering inflation. Third, the stock market can experience a freefall due to a) further lack of investment and b) more intensified speculative attack on the stock market by both Foreign Portfolio Investors and Foreign Institutional Investors.&nbsp;

Fourth, cost comes from the foreign exchange market where a weaker demand of a domestic currency in the forex market coupled with increased supply (due to import demand) will do nothing but weaken the currency to set another record low.&nbsp;

Finally, the overall effect of all these forces will push Indian economy to even severe recession than what we can imagine today. One of the byproducts of this will be definitely higher income and social inequality in future. Thus, the upcoming three to four weeks are even more crucial for an economy like India to fight the war against COVID.&nbsp;

Then the natural question which comes up is – then what we should do? The first and foremost is to continue with the lockdown and keep working on the social distancing or physical distancing with social solidarity whichever sounds better.&nbsp;

Next is definitely to increase financial support by the government of India not only for poor but also for migrant labours, as well as, for the frontline warriors. The current government has allocated only 0.8 per cent of GDP ($1.4 Billion) to fight&nbsp;the virus for a population of 1.38 Billion. Simple arithmetic states that $1 per capita to fight the disease! India’s GDP in 2019 was $2800 Billion and even if the government allocates 1 to 2 per cent of GDP (which most of the countries are doing) the much-needed financial support during the lockdown period could have been provided for mass.&nbsp;

Given the both economic and health crisis on hand, if we also agree to even relax fiscal deficit ($137 Billion) by 1 per cent it can generate worth of approximately $14 Billion. It looks like really a mysterious case of sticking to fiscal discipline at this stage. The whole idea of fiscal discipline is well accepted for long-run economic growth, but do we really want to stick&nbsp;to it when the pandemic is on? There had been several occasions where we defaulted, why not his time?

Last but not the least, we must not ignore the fact that India has foreign exchange reserve worth of $474.66 Billion. Given the ominous situation, the central bank could have extended their support to join the fight effectively. Unfortunately, that has not been the case either. While most countries are moving no stones unturned to fight the virus (let alone public debt &amp; fiscal deficit) we should have extended more fiscal support to withstand the challenges faced by various strata of Indian society.&nbsp;

To conclude, the fantastic role of police, medics and other frontline warriors are well beyond words, but where is the required fund to support people to stay at home, specifically for the lowest strata of the Indian society.&nbsp;

Rather than opening some zones to the threat at this stage, strong fiscal support would have been much more caring for low-income group, stranded migrants and informal sector workers. We do understand that no one can be sure that things will be fine down the three/four weeks’ timeline. However, we need to stay optimistic but probably we do not need to rush! 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The idea of using traffic model in India to restore economic activity at this stage has the potential to backfire badly. With a total number of cases increasing steadily on a daily basis without any sign of reaching the downward slope of the growth curve poses the question: Are we in a rush to jumpstart the economy?

The idea of using traffic model in India to restore economic activity at this stage has the potential to backfire badly. With a total number of cases increasing steadily on a daily basis without any sign of reaching the downward slope of the growth curve poses the question: Are we in a rush to jumpstart the economy? The amount of loss has been already estimated to be $98 billion during the first round of 21 days lockdown. In forex market, the Indian currency is almost in its coma as it has attained the lowest value against the dollar in its own history. In fact, one rupee is now even less than one US cent! The scenario is no doubt disheartening and significant. Given the gloom scenario if we imagine that there is a sudden outburst of the contagion effect in a very robust manner, then what will be the scenario in India? Probably we will be frightened to even visualise. This can ensue since the orange can switch its colour to red in a matter of few days and same goes for green. A feeble laxity of social distancing can have a huge multiplier effect on the toll of cases as well as on the number of deaths. Amidst the not so picturesque view, the partial lockdown may turn out to be a premature decision. The social marginal benefit of partial relaxation lies in the fact that (primarily) rural economic activities during partial relaxation will self-sustain themselves to some extent. There is no doubt that it will bring some breeze into the system. However, the social marginal cost may outweigh the benefits. Costs include the following but are not limited to these. First, we need to realise that there is still no vaccine and therapy for the deadly coronavirus. Medical experts around the world have already warned that India will probably see the highest surge during the end of April/first week of May. This can be coupled with the lack of health infrastructure in India, where we allocate a mere 1.28 per cent of GDP - less than even Nepal, Srilanka, Indonesia, Bhutan to name a few - and have even less than 50,000 ventilators as of date. We have already seen that despite allocating much higher funds, having better health infrastructure and a greater number of trained doctors to combat the scenario by advanced economies - they failed to keep the fight within the control. Thus, the number of possible deaths can steadily intensify in India with partial relaxation of lockdown and almost nonexistent world-class health infrastructure to contest COVID 19. As a part of a negative externality, the increased number of deaths can produce havoc socio-economic panic, which we do not want at any cost at this stage of the battle. Second, the potential pandemonium due to deaths will create an immense amount of pressure on medical supplies which is already facing a bottleneck. The overall aggregate supply will further experience a very strong negative supply shock triggering inflation. Third, the stock market can experience a freefall due to a) further lack of investment and b) more intensified speculative attack on the stock market by both Foreign Portfolio Investors and Foreign Institutional Investors. Fourth, cost comes from the foreign exchange market where a weaker demand of a domestic currency in the forex market coupled with increased supply (due to import demand) will do nothing but weaken the currency to set another record low. Finally, the overall effect of all these forces will push Indian economy to even severe recession than what we can imagine today. One of the byproducts of this will be definitely higher income and social inequality in future. Thus, the upcoming three to four weeks are even more crucial for an economy like India to fight the war against COVID. Then the natural question which comes up is – then what we should do? The first and foremost is to continue with the lockdown and keep working on the social distancing or physical distancing with social solidarity whichever sounds better. Next is definitely to increase financial support by the government of India not only for poor but also for migrant labours, as well as, for the frontline warriors. The current government has allocated only 0.8 per cent of GDP ($1.4 Billion) to fight the virus for a population of 1.38 Billion. Simple arithmetic states that $1 per capita to fight the disease! India’s GDP in 2019 was $2800 Billion and even if the government allocates 1 to 2 per cent of GDP (which most of the countries are doing) the much-needed financial support during the lockdown period could have been provided for mass. Given the both economic and health crisis on hand, if we also agree to even relax fiscal deficit ($137 Billion) by 1 per cent it can generate worth of approximately $14 Billion. It looks like really a mysterious case of sticking to fiscal discipline at this stage. The whole idea of fiscal discipline is well accepted for long-run economic growth, but do we really want to stick to it when the pandemic is on? There had been several occasions where we defaulted, why not his time? Last but not the least, we must not ignore the fact that India has foreign exchange reserve worth of $474.66 Billion. Given the ominous situation, the central bank could have extended their support to join the fight effectively. Unfortunately, that has not been the case either. While most countries are moving no stones unturned to fight the virus (let alone public debt & fiscal deficit) we should have extended more fiscal support to withstand the challenges faced by various strata of Indian society. To conclude, the fantastic role of police, medics and other frontline warriors are well beyond words, but where is the required fund to support people to stay at home, specifically for the lowest strata of the Indian society. Rather than opening some zones to the threat at this stage, strong fiscal support would have been much more caring for low-income group, stranded migrants and informal sector workers. We do understand that no one can be sure that things will be fine down the three/four weeks’ timeline. However, we need to stay optimistic but probably we do not need to rush! (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Here's why India should not be in a rush to jumpstart the economy stalled by coronavirus

COVID 19 has brought the problem of migrant labour in the public domain very forcefully for the first time in seventy years of India’s independence. Migrant labour includes people working in the informal structure of economy like cleaners, maids, drivers, construction workers security guards, garbage collectors, rickshaw pullers, pressers etc. They come to metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata to earn their livelihood.

The problem of the formal domestic migrant labour has been a subject matter of development and policy planning and has been discussed at various governmental and nongovernmental platforms, however, the outpouring of migrant labour on the street and its visual representation throughout the digital and electronic media has exposed the dilemma of India new liberal economy which has been pursued since 1991.&nbsp;

The announcement of lockdown, to break down the infection cycle of COVID-19, did not take into consideration the problem of the labour force of the unorganised sector.&nbsp;

This was coincided by the sudden mobilisation of thousands of migrant labourers in almost all metropolis and megacities which caught the government totally unprepared. &nbsp;

The scene was certainly heart wrenching and many analysts and economists drew the attention of the government for a more compassionate role to address the problem of poor in the country.&nbsp;

However, from my point of view, the issue is not one of compassion, but it is of right, equity, justice in general and distributive justice in particular.&nbsp;

Analysts have pointed out that the government and civil society send direct money along with providing food materials, however, the basic question here is –why the government has asked everybody to stay at home, &nbsp;the same has been denied to the migrant labours. This explains why the migrant labourers were not looking for any government or civil society support but the right to free movement to reach their homes in villages and small towns by railways, trucks, buses or any other available means of transportation. For migrant labour, only home in villages or small towns can provide a place or space for successful social distancing or quarantine rather cramped room in a city where they live together in dozens.&nbsp;

This reality of Indian politics, economy and governance exposes the uneven, unequal process of development in the country. &nbsp;

Though the government has come out with a number of relief packages which together amounts to $23 billion economic stimulus plan that provides direct cash transfers and food security measures to help the poor to deal with this Pandemic. The government also aims to distribute 5 kilograms of wheat or rice for each person free of cost, with a kilogram of pulses for every low-income family, helping to feed about 800 million poor people over the next three months. The government also has announced to hand out free cooking-gas cylinders to 83 million poor families, a one-time cash transfer of $13.31 to 30 million senior citizens and $6.65 a month to about 200 million poor women for next three months.&nbsp;

However, for a country that is aspiring to become a global power, it is important that its governing elite must pay attention to reduce the soaring income inequality and strengthen the health infrastructure in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

 
&nbsp;

COVID 19 has brought the problem of migrant labour in the public domain very forcefully for the first time in seventy years of India’s independence. Migrant labour includes people working in the informal structure of economy like cleaners, maids, drivers, construction workers security guards, garbage collectors, rickshaw pullers, pressers etc.

COVID 19 has brought the problem of migrant labour in the public domain very forcefully for the first time in seventy years of India’s independence. Migrant labour includes people working in the informal structure of economy like cleaners, maids, drivers, construction workers security guards, garbage collectors, rickshaw pullers, pressers etc. They come to metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata to earn their livelihood. The problem of the formal domestic migrant labour has been a subject matter of development and policy planning and has been discussed at various governmental and nongovernmental platforms, however, the outpouring of migrant labour on the street and its visual representation throughout the digital and electronic media has exposed the dilemma of India new liberal economy which has been pursued since 1991. The announcement of lockdown, to break down the infection cycle of COVID-19, did not take into consideration the problem of the labour force of the unorganised sector. This was coincided by the sudden mobilisation of thousands of migrant labourers in almost all metropolis and megacities which caught the government totally unprepared. The scene was certainly heart wrenching and many analysts and economists drew the attention of the government for a more compassionate role to address the problem of poor in the country. However, from my point of view, the issue is not one of compassion, but it is of right, equity, justice in general and distributive justice in particular. Analysts have pointed out that the government and civil society send direct money along with providing food materials, however, the basic question here is –why the government has asked everybody to stay at home, the same has been denied to the migrant labours. This explains why the migrant labourers were not looking for any government or civil society support but the right to free movement to reach their homes in villages and small towns by railways, trucks, buses or any other available means of transportation. For migrant labour, only home in villages or small towns can provide a place or space for successful social distancing or quarantine rather cramped room in a city where they live together in dozens. This reality of Indian politics, economy and governance exposes the uneven, unequal process of development in the country. Though the government has come out with a number of relief packages which together amounts to $23 billion economic stimulus plan that provides direct cash transfers and food security measures to help the poor to deal with this Pandemic. The government also aims to distribute 5 kilograms of wheat or rice for each person free of cost, with a kilogram of pulses for every low-income family, helping to feed about 800 million poor people over the next three months. The government also has announced to hand out free cooking-gas cylinders to 83 million poor families, a one-time cash transfer of $13.31 to 30 million senior citizens and $6.65 a month to about 200 million poor women for next three months. However, for a country that is aspiring to become a global power, it is important that its governing elite must pay attention to reduce the soaring income inequality and strengthen the health infrastructure in the country.  (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Coronavirus crisis:  A lot needs to be done for the migrant labour

The Wild Life Sydney Zoo at Darling Harbour may be closed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, but that doesn't mean a slowdown of work for curatorial supervisor and zookeeper, Renee Howell.

Australian zookeeper copes with changes on the job during coronavirus

By Robyn Klingler-Vidra and Ba-Linh Tran

Vietnam – a developing country that has a large land border with China and a population of 97 million people – has not reported a single death from coronavirus. As of April 21, the country had reported 268 cases of COVID-19, the disease associated with the new coronavirus, with more than 140 people making a full recovery.

The reason why Vietnam has managed to keep patients from death’s door is down to a three-pronged government strategy. While these policy choices may not all be consistent with upholding civil liberties, they are proving essential to keeping the pandemic at bay.

Temperature screening and testing

Starting in February, anyone arriving at an airport in a major Vietnamese city had to go through compulsory body temperature screening and fill in a health self-declaration, stating their contact details and travel and health history. These measures are now mandatory for everyone entering major cities and some provinces by land too, and for everyone entering a government building or hospital.

Anyone with a body temperature of over 38C is taken to the nearest medical facility for more thorough testing. Those who are proven to have lied in their self-declaration, or who resist declaring altogether, can be criminally charged.

Businesses including banks, restaurants and apartment complexes have also implemented their own screening procedures.

There has also been intensive testing across the country. Testing stations have been set up across cities, which all citizens can attend. Communities who live near confirmed cases – sometimes an entire street or village – are swiftly tested and placed in lockdown.

Our own research on the development of affordable test kits found that by March 5, Vietnam had validated three different test kits, each costing less than US$25 (£20) and producing results within 90 minutes. These are all being manufactured in Vietnam. The cost of testing matters everywhere, but is particularly important in emerging economies like Vietnam and these affordable test kits have helped the government’s intensive testing strategy.

Targetted lockdowns 
 
The second prong of Vietnam’s approach is quarantine and lockdowns. Since mid-February, Vietnamese people returning home from abroad have been quarantined for 14 days on arrival and tested for COVID-19. The same quarantine policy has been applied to foreigners coming to Vietnam. Anyone who has come into direct contact with an infected person, the details of whom are publicised, is encouraged to come forward for quarantine. If it’s discovered somebody has come into contact with someone who has tested positive, they will be put into mandatory quarantine.

In March, Vietnam started to lock down whole cities and specific areas in a city. Travelling between cities is now highly restricted. In Danang in central Vietnam, anyone who is not a registered resident of the city but wishes to enter has to submit to a 14-day quarantine at a government-approved facility which they must finance themselves.

Villages of 10,000 people have been fenced off on account of single cases. Bach Mai, a famous hospital of 3,200 people in Hanoi which is also a leading COVID-19 treatment centre, was even locked down in late March after one externally contracted staff member tested positive. Businesses, both state and private, are closed down, and the tourism and airline industries are essentially frozen.

Constant communications

From early January, the Vietnamese government has communicated widely to citizens about the seriousness of the coronavirus. Communications have been clear: COVID-19 is not just bad flu, but something to be taken extremely seriously, so people are advised not to put themselves or others at risk.

The government has been creative in its communications methods. Each day, different parts of the Vietnamese government – from the prime minister, to the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Information and Communications and provincial governments – text citizens with information. Details on symptoms and protection measures are communicated via text to mobile phones all over the country. The government has also partnered with messaging platforms, such as Zalo, to distribute updates. This is coupled with propaganda art across the country and newly designed stamps that further disseminate public health messages about the virus. Vietnam’s cities are adorned with posters that remind citizens of their role in stopping the spread of the virus.

At the same time, the government is revealing details of those who have COVID-19 or, in rare cases, have escaped quarantine – though the person’s name is not made public. For example, two new reports detailed the travel details of patients 237 and 243.

Even if some cases have not yet been detected by officials, there’s no doubt that the Vietnamese approach has been effective in reducing the spread of the virus. Combined, these measures mean Vietnam has not yet experienced any large scale community outbreak, which would devastate a city like Ho Chi Minh City with a population of 11 million and overwhelm the country’s public healthcare system.

The three prongs of Vietnam’s strategy may not be wholly consistent with liberal ideals, but they are working. The healthcare system has the time to treat each patient, and in so doing, keep the number of COVID-19 deaths at zero. Vietnam offers important lessons as COVID-19 is set to spread further across developing countries.

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read <a href="https://theconversation.com/vietnam-has-reported-no-coronavirus-deaths-how-136646">the original article</a>) &nbsp;

(Robyn Klingler-Vidra Senior Lecturer in Political Economy, King's College London; Ba-Linh Tran is 
PhD Candidate, University of Bath)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

By Robyn Klingler-Vidra and Ba-Linh Tran Vietnam – a developing country that has a large land border with China and a population of 97 million people – has not reported a single death from coronavirus.

By Robyn Klingler-Vidra and Ba-Linh Tran Vietnam – a developing country that has a large land border with China and a population of 97 million people – has not reported a single death from coronavirus. As of April 21, the country had reported 268 cases of COVID-19, the disease associated with the new coronavirus, with more than 140 people making a full recovery. The reason why Vietnam has managed to keep patients from death’s door is down to a three-pronged government strategy. While these policy choices may not all be consistent with upholding civil liberties, they are proving essential to keeping the pandemic at bay. Temperature screening and testing Starting in February, anyone arriving at an airport in a major Vietnamese city had to go through compulsory body temperature screening and fill in a health self-declaration, stating their contact details and travel and health history. These measures are now mandatory for everyone entering major cities and some provinces by land too, and for everyone entering a government building or hospital. Anyone with a body temperature of over 38C is taken to the nearest medical facility for more thorough testing. Those who are proven to have lied in their self-declaration, or who resist declaring altogether, can be criminally charged. Businesses including banks, restaurants and apartment complexes have also implemented their own screening procedures. There has also been intensive testing across the country. Testing stations have been set up across cities, which all citizens can attend. Communities who live near confirmed cases – sometimes an entire street or village – are swiftly tested and placed in lockdown. Our own research on the development of affordable test kits found that by March 5, Vietnam had validated three different test kits, each costing less than US$25 (£20) and producing results within 90 minutes. These are all being manufactured in Vietnam. The cost of testing matters everywhere, but is particularly important in emerging economies like Vietnam and these affordable test kits have helped the government’s intensive testing strategy. Targetted lockdowns The second prong of Vietnam’s approach is quarantine and lockdowns. Since mid-February, Vietnamese people returning home from abroad have been quarantined for 14 days on arrival and tested for COVID-19. The same quarantine policy has been applied to foreigners coming to Vietnam. Anyone who has come into direct contact with an infected person, the details of whom are publicised, is encouraged to come forward for quarantine. If it’s discovered somebody has come into contact with someone who has tested positive, they will be put into mandatory quarantine. In March, Vietnam started to lock down whole cities and specific areas in a city. Travelling between cities is now highly restricted. In Danang in central Vietnam, anyone who is not a registered resident of the city but wishes to enter has to submit to a 14-day quarantine at a government-approved facility which they must finance themselves. Villages of 10,000 people have been fenced off on account of single cases. Bach Mai, a famous hospital of 3,200 people in Hanoi which is also a leading COVID-19 treatment centre, was even locked down in late March after one externally contracted staff member tested positive. Businesses, both state and private, are closed down, and the tourism and airline industries are essentially frozen. Constant communications From early January, the Vietnamese government has communicated widely to citizens about the seriousness of the coronavirus. Communications have been clear: COVID-19 is not just bad flu, but something to be taken extremely seriously, so people are advised not to put themselves or others at risk. The government has been creative in its communications methods. Each day, different parts of the Vietnamese government – from the prime minister, to the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Information and Communications and provincial governments – text citizens with information. Details on symptoms and protection measures are communicated via text to mobile phones all over the country. The government has also partnered with messaging platforms, such as Zalo, to distribute updates. This is coupled with propaganda art across the country and newly designed stamps that further disseminate public health messages about the virus. Vietnam’s cities are adorned with posters that remind citizens of their role in stopping the spread of the virus. At the same time, the government is revealing details of those who have COVID-19 or, in rare cases, have escaped quarantine – though the person’s name is not made public. For example, two new reports detailed the travel details of patients 237 and 243. Even if some cases have not yet been detected by officials, there’s no doubt that the Vietnamese approach has been effective in reducing the spread of the virus. Combined, these measures mean Vietnam has not yet experienced any large scale community outbreak, which would devastate a city like Ho Chi Minh City with a population of 11 million and overwhelm the country’s public healthcare system. The three prongs of Vietnam’s strategy may not be wholly consistent with liberal ideals, but they are working. The healthcare system has the time to treat each patient, and in so doing, keep the number of COVID-19 deaths at zero. Vietnam offers important lessons as COVID-19 is set to spread further across developing countries. (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Robyn Klingler-Vidra Senior Lecturer in Political Economy, King's College London; Ba-Linh Tran is PhD Candidate, University of Bath) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Vietnam has reported no coronavirus deaths – how?

Staff at Sewerby Hall and Gardens Zoo helped Humboldt penguin Rosie celebrate her 30th birthday in lockdown on Monday (April 20).

Rosie the Humboldt penguin celebrates 30th birthday

For over a decade, US-based Bill Gates has been talking about his greatest fear for mankind. &nbsp;In mid-2018, Gates stated that within the next decade, a flu could cause 30 million deaths in less than six months. He urged that “In the case of biological threats, that sense of urgency is lacking. The world needs to prepare for pandemics in the same serious way it prepares for war”. &nbsp;

&nbsp;As of today, Gates stands correct on both counts. A global pandemic hit the entire world and caught us unprepared. Millions are under quarantine. 1.3 Billion on lockdown just in India. Almost two million people have tested positive for coronavirus. Experts are also predicting that there are many more cases that could be positive and untested. &nbsp;

It was in Wuhan, China where the virus first crowned. China initially denied the virus spread. It was only later, when China realised that the infectious and virulent nature of COVID-19, it became transparent about it. &nbsp;

South Korea is one country that has done an exemplary job in combating the coronavirus. As of March 5, 2020, South Korea had the most number of infected people outside of China. At least 6300 positive cases and 40 dead from COVID-19. As of today, South Korea has successfully curbed the spread of the virus. What did South Korea do so successfully? Especially when other nations have seen their numbers growing exponentially. &nbsp;

While developed states in Europe and North America struggle to contain the infection and total deaths could be to 200,000 only in the USA, South Korea engaged in mass testing of its citizens. By the end of the first week of March, South Korea had imposed a mandatory self-isolation on over 30,000 people. This was monitored through a phone application that was designed by the South Korean government. By the end of the first week of April, South Korea had tested over 500,000 people successfully. South Korea managed to quickly isolate most people who had come in contact with any infected person. The app routinely gave location-based emergency messages and alerts pertaining to COVID-19 and even pointed to the routes that infected persons had taken so that people could avoid or self-isolate if they felt they could have come in contact with COVID-19 positive individuals on that route.&nbsp;

India voluntarily went into lockdown early when figures were low. Like South Korea, state machinery in India was actively engaged from the start. Isolation centres were set up, states activated stringent measures, and India implemented among the world’s most stringent border controls. An app called the Aarogya Setu was launched for self-diagnosis and tracking. The app is proving invaluable help in connecting citizens with emergency services. It provides correct information on symptoms of coronavirus to the users. &nbsp;

Furthermore, the data collected through Aarogya Setu would be compiled to help create anonymized, aggregated datasets for the purpose of generating reports, heat maps, and other statistical visualisations for the purpose of the management of COVID-19 in the country. While it does access the device’s GPS locations and Bluetooth services, the purposes of the application are limited to the tracking of individuals that might be infected or might infect others with COVID-19. The access to Bluetooth is especially important for a post-lockdown scenario where users of the app that come into close proximity of COVID-19 infected individuals, who had travelled or come in contact with them, could be notified as soon as the application recognises a possible source of infection around the user and asked to take precautionary measures to stop the possible spread of the infection further. &nbsp;

The application seeks to further the government’s attempt at tracking any possible community infection of COVID-19. However, the success of this application lies in mass utilisation by smartphone users that amount to almost 500 Million users. The application, just like the one used in South Korea, could be of tremendous help in containing the further spread of the virus once the lockdown is lifted. &nbsp;

We’ve seen from the South Korean model that testing and tracking have to go hand in hand in this fight against COVID-19. While we can’t stop the spread completely, through the use of modern technologies available at our disposal we can indeed limit the spread. The surveillance by the application is limited for the purpose it seeks to serve and while it does track and transmit the data to the administrators, it is evident from the privacy policy that the data sets are “anonymised”, meaning the data will not be identified by an individual user but as an anonymous data set collected from a user whose identity will be kept hidden. This is similar to an anonymous survey where your inputs are recorded yet your identity is not. Moreover, the potential risks are still being discussed but the benefits are quite apparent. &nbsp;

The nature of the data collected is not different from any mainstream applications on our smartphones or other devices these days. The GPS function is almost identical when it comes to the use and data retention to many other mainstream social media, instant messenger and e-commerce applications. The Bluetooth functionality is an added feature to ensure proximity detection vis-à-vis other users of the application as GPS location services are not the most accurate and may result in false alerts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended the lockdown till May 3 to ensure that we are completely prepared to resume our everyday lives once the lockdown is lifted. The Aarogya Setu application, along with testing on a mass scale, will act as the cornerstone of our strategy to combat COVID-19. However, the most important aspect of this fight, just as we have seen during the lockdown, is going to be the cooperation of the people of India. A successful end to this fight against COVID-19 is only possible through continued testing and tracking of COVID-19 cases, similar to what was done in South Korea. Since we can’t treat this infection yet, our only hope is to stop it from spreading.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

For over a decade, US-based Bill Gates has been talking about his greatest fear for mankind. In mid-2018, Gates stated that within the next decade, a flu could cause 30 million deaths in less than six months.

For over a decade, US-based Bill Gates has been talking about his greatest fear for mankind. In mid-2018, Gates stated that within the next decade, a flu could cause 30 million deaths in less than six months. He urged that “In the case of biological threats, that sense of urgency is lacking. The world needs to prepare for pandemics in the same serious way it prepares for war”.  As of today, Gates stands correct on both counts. A global pandemic hit the entire world and caught us unprepared. Millions are under quarantine. 1.3 Billion on lockdown just in India. Almost two million people have tested positive for coronavirus. Experts are also predicting that there are many more cases that could be positive and untested.  It was in Wuhan, China where the virus first crowned. China initially denied the virus spread. It was only later, when China realised that the infectious and virulent nature of COVID-19, it became transparent about it.  South Korea is one country that has done an exemplary job in combating the coronavirus. As of March 5, 2020, South Korea had the most number of infected people outside of China. At least 6300 positive cases and 40 dead from COVID-19. As of today, South Korea has successfully curbed the spread of the virus. What did South Korea do so successfully? Especially when other nations have seen their numbers growing exponentially.  While developed states in Europe and North America struggle to contain the infection and total deaths could be to 200,000 only in the USA, South Korea engaged in mass testing of its citizens. By the end of the first week of March, South Korea had imposed a mandatory self-isolation on over 30,000 people. This was monitored through a phone application that was designed by the South Korean government. By the end of the first week of April, South Korea had tested over 500,000 people successfully. South Korea managed to quickly isolate most people who had come in contact with any infected person. The app routinely gave location-based emergency messages and alerts pertaining to COVID-19 and even pointed to the routes that infected persons had taken so that people could avoid or self-isolate if they felt they could have come in contact with COVID-19 positive individuals on that route. India voluntarily went into lockdown early when figures were low. Like South Korea, state machinery in India was actively engaged from the start. Isolation centres were set up, states activated stringent measures, and India implemented among the world’s most stringent border controls. An app called the Aarogya Setu was launched for self-diagnosis and tracking. The app is proving invaluable help in connecting citizens with emergency services. It provides correct information on symptoms of coronavirus to the users.  Furthermore, the data collected through Aarogya Setu would be compiled to help create anonymized, aggregated datasets for the purpose of generating reports, heat maps, and other statistical visualisations for the purpose of the management of COVID-19 in the country. While it does access the device’s GPS locations and Bluetooth services, the purposes of the application are limited to the tracking of individuals that might be infected or might infect others with COVID-19. The access to Bluetooth is especially important for a post-lockdown scenario where users of the app that come into close proximity of COVID-19 infected individuals, who had travelled or come in contact with them, could be notified as soon as the application recognises a possible source of infection around the user and asked to take precautionary measures to stop the possible spread of the infection further. The application seeks to further the government’s attempt at tracking any possible community infection of COVID-19. However, the success of this application lies in mass utilisation by smartphone users that amount to almost 500 Million users. The application, just like the one used in South Korea, could be of tremendous help in containing the further spread of the virus once the lockdown is lifted. We’ve seen from the South Korean model that testing and tracking have to go hand in hand in this fight against COVID-19. While we can’t stop the spread completely, through the use of modern technologies available at our disposal we can indeed limit the spread. The surveillance by the application is limited for the purpose it seeks to serve and while it does track and transmit the data to the administrators, it is evident from the privacy policy that the data sets are “anonymised”, meaning the data will not be identified by an individual user but as an anonymous data set collected from a user whose identity will be kept hidden. This is similar to an anonymous survey where your inputs are recorded yet your identity is not. Moreover, the potential risks are still being discussed but the benefits are quite apparent. The nature of the data collected is not different from any mainstream applications on our smartphones or other devices these days. The GPS function is almost identical when it comes to the use and data retention to many other mainstream social media, instant messenger and e-commerce applications. The Bluetooth functionality is an added feature to ensure proximity detection vis-à-vis other users of the application as GPS location services are not the most accurate and may result in false alerts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended the lockdown till May 3 to ensure that we are completely prepared to resume our everyday lives once the lockdown is lifted. The Aarogya Setu application, along with testing on a mass scale, will act as the cornerstone of our strategy to combat COVID-19. However, the most important aspect of this fight, just as we have seen during the lockdown, is going to be the cooperation of the people of India. A successful end to this fight against COVID-19 is only possible through continued testing and tracking of COVID-19 cases, similar to what was done in South Korea. Since we can’t treat this infection yet, our only hope is to stop it from spreading. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

As India battles coronavirus, Aarogya Setu app helps you stay safe and informed

A housing complex in Andheri, Mumbai has been sealed by BMC after an 11-year-old girl tested positive for coronavirus on Tuesday. The housing complex has Bollywood actors like Vicky Kaushal, Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha and Chitrangada Singh residing in it. 
 
According to media reports, the child is the daughter of a film director who resides in the C-wing of the complex. The BMC has completely sealed off C wing while the A and B wings have been partially sealed. BMC has also sanitised the entire complex. 
 
According to sources, the residents of the complex have reportedly been asked to go under strict quarantine and take extra precautionary measures to contain the spread of the infection. Residents have been asked to not step out of their homes even for walks with the complex. 
 
Earlier last week, the housing complex where actress Ankita Lokhande lives was also sealed after new cases of coronavirus were reported from there. 
 
Bollywood producer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood-producer-karim-morani-tests-negative-for-covid-19-293271">Karim Morani, </a>his daughters<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/zoa-and-shaza-morani-discharged-from-the-hospital-after-covid-19-treatment-292263"> Zoa and Shaza </a>had tested positive for the virus earlier this month. They have since then recovered.

A housing complex in Andheri, Mumbai has been sealed by BMC after an 11-year-old girl tested positive for coronavirus on Tuesday. The housing complex has Bollywood actors like Vicky Kaushal, Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha and Chitrangada Singh residing in it.

A housing complex in Andheri, Mumbai has been sealed by BMC after an 11-year-old girl tested positive for coronavirus on Tuesday. The housing complex has Bollywood actors like Vicky Kaushal, Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha and Chitrangada Singh residing in it. According to media reports, the child is the daughter of a film director who resides in the C-wing of the complex. The BMC has completely sealed off C wing while the A and B wings have been partially sealed. BMC has also sanitised the entire complex. According to sources, the residents of the complex have reportedly been asked to go under strict quarantine and take extra precautionary measures to contain the spread of the infection. Residents have been asked to not step out of their homes even for walks with the complex. Earlier last week, the housing complex where actress Ankita Lokhande lives was also sealed after new cases of coronavirus were reported from there. Bollywood producer Karim Morani, his daughters Zoa and Shaza had tested positive for the virus earlier this month. They have since then recovered.

Vicky Kaushal, Rajkummar Rao's housing complex sealed after 11-year old girl tests positive for coronavirus

Over 2.4 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally. More than 200 countries across the world have declared war on this invisible enemy. But no one has managed to defeat it yet.

Coronavirus can only be contained if those infected are successfully isolated and treated. And this is where Bluetooth-driven contact-tracing apps can come in handy. So, what is this technology about?

How do contact-tracing apps work?

The first step is obviously to download the app. The user then needs to update his or her COVID-19 status. These apps use the phone’s Bluetooth technology to determine if a given user came in close proximity with an infected person. And if it happens, it alerts the user with a notification and urges him to get tested and self-isolate. In principle, this system is more efficient than traditional contact-tracing methods that require the concerned staff to interview patients about their travels. Interestingly, many countries have already adopted this technology and others are likely to follow suit.

Singapore is the first country to have implemented contact-tracing via Bluetooth with an app called “Trace Together.” India’s Aarogya Setu app also works on the same technology. Other countries such as Israel, China and South Korea are also using similar apps to contain the spread of the deadly virus.

There are constant attempts to make these apps better. Tech giants like Apple and Google are working on new tools to make app-based tracing more effective. The companies say their technology could enable apps to monitor contacts for a 14-day period.

Eventually, the process of digital tracing could help authorities relax lockdowns in some parts and enable more selective quarantines. In other words, it can help decision-makers determine which areas are relatively safer.

Contact-tracing apps: What are the limitations?

Well, it sounds like a terrific innovation, but researchers say that digital tracing can be effective only if 60 per cent of the population downloads the app and updates their status. Experts believe that contact tracing is helpful only in countries where mass testing is available.

Also, there are privacy-related concerns around contact-tracing apps. Privacy advocates worry that such a database could be a hackers’ goldmine. But some researchers say contact-tracing can be implemented while protecting privacy. Although this will vary from app to app in each country.

No wonder, the technology looks promising, but it needs the support of users to be effective.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Over 2.4 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally. More than 200 countries across the world have declared war on this invisible enemy.

Over 2.4 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally. More than 200 countries across the world have declared war on this invisible enemy. But no one has managed to defeat it yet. Coronavirus can only be contained if those infected are successfully isolated and treated. And this is where Bluetooth-driven contact-tracing apps can come in handy. So, what is this technology about? How do contact-tracing apps work? The first step is obviously to download the app. The user then needs to update his or her COVID-19 status. These apps use the phone’s Bluetooth technology to determine if a given user came in close proximity with an infected person. And if it happens, it alerts the user with a notification and urges him to get tested and self-isolate. In principle, this system is more efficient than traditional contact-tracing methods that require the concerned staff to interview patients about their travels. Interestingly, many countries have already adopted this technology and others are likely to follow suit. Singapore is the first country to have implemented contact-tracing via Bluetooth with an app called “Trace Together.” India’s Aarogya Setu app also works on the same technology. Other countries such as Israel, China and South Korea are also using similar apps to contain the spread of the deadly virus. There are constant attempts to make these apps better. Tech giants like Apple and Google are working on new tools to make app-based tracing more effective. The companies say their technology could enable apps to monitor contacts for a 14-day period. Eventually, the process of digital tracing could help authorities relax lockdowns in some parts and enable more selective quarantines. In other words, it can help decision-makers determine which areas are relatively safer. Contact-tracing apps: What are the limitations? Well, it sounds like a terrific innovation, but researchers say that digital tracing can be effective only if 60 per cent of the population downloads the app and updates their status. Experts believe that contact tracing is helpful only in countries where mass testing is available. Also, there are privacy-related concerns around contact-tracing apps. Privacy advocates worry that such a database could be a hackers’ goldmine. But some researchers say contact-tracing can be implemented while protecting privacy. Although this will vary from app to app in each country. No wonder, the technology looks promising, but it needs the support of users to be effective.

Explained: Can mobile apps aid the fight against coronavirus?

It is good to know that 6.5 lakh testing kits have arrived in India from China, which could potentially help in identifying individuals with symptoms of coronavirus.

Chinese testing kits face rejection:

At the same time, it is necessary to keep in mind that testing kits supplied by China have been rejected by several countries including Spain, Philippines.&nbsp;

What is particularly noteworthy is that China has not disputed the criticism but have offered to replace them in a number of cases.

Absence of procurement procedure:

For these testing kits, China is now operating in the seller’s market, where China is quoting a fancy price and dictating delivery schedules.

In the present desperate conditions due to coronavirus crisis in the world, it appears that China is the only country well prepared to supply the test kits in large quantities.

Forward planning by China&nbsp;

In the seller’s market operated by China, India is importing a large number of testing kits. Normally, in the large scale procurement, the buyer has to inspect the shop floor practices and testing/quality control procedures adopted by the producing company by visiting the unit and inspecting the conditions in a broad manner.&nbsp;

However, there have been huge restrictions in China about the visits of foreigners and in such circumstances, there is no way that such procurement procedures could have been adopted by the buyers.

It is also known that traders in China are also offering to supply the kits and these traders could be procuring from small manufacturers in China. Therefore, the status and credibility of the suppliers need careful examination.

Need for caution : 
 
It is also reported by a section of scientists and medical researchers that the coronavirus can spread not only by a human to human contact, but the virus can stay for a long time on the surface of the objects, tools, kits etc. This is why people are asked to wash their hands every time they would touch a new object or even after opening or closing door or window.

There is enough justification to develop a suspicion that some of the testing kits arriving from China may have virus spread on the surface, as the testing kits are received from virus-infected country.

It is extremely necessary to be cautious in handling these kits from China and using them for testing purposes. In the unfortunate event of these doubts proving to be correct, the consequences could be disastrous and too terrifying to imagine.

In this connection, it is good to know that the government of India has said that these rapid antibody kits from China would be strictly used only as a surveillance tool and not for a diagnosis.

For a layman, it is difficult to clearly understand what exactly is the difference between surveillance and diagnosis in practical terms. Can we expect that surveillance test would be done on individuals though on a scattered basis and not on every individual? Even such surveillance tests could cause harm if they happen to have virus spread on them.

While it is necessary to carry out extensive testing, the use of testing equipment from China should be done with great care and caution, particularly since several countries have rejected the test kits supplied by China in the last few days.

Need to explain precautionary measures:

It is necessary that the government of India should explain to the people about the precautionary measures taken in procuring test kits from China. 
 
Some sampling methods must be decided by the government of India, and guidelines to test the adequacy of the testing kits in all respects should be circulated by the government of India, which should be done as a matter of abundant precaution. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

It is good to know that 6.5 lakh testing kits have arrived in India from China, which could potentially help in identifying individuals with symptoms of coronavirus.

It is good to know that 6.5 lakh testing kits have arrived in India from China, which could potentially help in identifying individuals with symptoms of coronavirus. Chinese testing kits face rejection: At the same time, it is necessary to keep in mind that testing kits supplied by China have been rejected by several countries including Spain, Philippines. What is particularly noteworthy is that China has not disputed the criticism but have offered to replace them in a number of cases. Absence of procurement procedure: For these testing kits, China is now operating in the seller’s market, where China is quoting a fancy price and dictating delivery schedules. In the present desperate conditions due to coronavirus crisis in the world, it appears that China is the only country well prepared to supply the test kits in large quantities. Forward planning by China In the seller’s market operated by China, India is importing a large number of testing kits. Normally, in the large scale procurement, the buyer has to inspect the shop floor practices and testing/quality control procedures adopted by the producing company by visiting the unit and inspecting the conditions in a broad manner. However, there have been huge restrictions in China about the visits of foreigners and in such circumstances, there is no way that such procurement procedures could have been adopted by the buyers. It is also known that traders in China are also offering to supply the kits and these traders could be procuring from small manufacturers in China. Therefore, the status and credibility of the suppliers need careful examination. Need for caution : It is also reported by a section of scientists and medical researchers that the coronavirus can spread not only by a human to human contact, but the virus can stay for a long time on the surface of the objects, tools, kits etc. This is why people are asked to wash their hands every time they would touch a new object or even after opening or closing door or window. There is enough justification to develop a suspicion that some of the testing kits arriving from China may have virus spread on the surface, as the testing kits are received from virus-infected country. It is extremely necessary to be cautious in handling these kits from China and using them for testing purposes. In the unfortunate event of these doubts proving to be correct, the consequences could be disastrous and too terrifying to imagine. In this connection, it is good to know that the government of India has said that these rapid antibody kits from China would be strictly used only as a surveillance tool and not for a diagnosis. For a layman, it is difficult to clearly understand what exactly is the difference between surveillance and diagnosis in practical terms. Can we expect that surveillance test would be done on individuals though on a scattered basis and not on every individual? Even such surveillance tests could cause harm if they happen to have virus spread on them. While it is necessary to carry out extensive testing, the use of testing equipment from China should be done with great care and caution, particularly since several countries have rejected the test kits supplied by China in the last few days. Need to explain precautionary measures: It is necessary that the government of India should explain to the people about the precautionary measures taken in procuring test kits from China. Some sampling methods must be decided by the government of India, and guidelines to test the adequacy of the testing kits in all respects should be circulated by the government of India, which should be done as a matter of abundant precaution. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Caution needed while using testing equipment from China

Avian (bird) influenza virus and avian infectious bronchitis virus are coronaviruses, which elicit similar symptoms, are major pathogens <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095311915613168">long-circulating</a> in Chinese poultry populations and have resulted in great economic losses for China due to respiratory disease and reduced egg production.

Avian influenza viruses are capable of infecting humans and multiple outbreaks have <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/pdf/10.1056/NEJMoa1304617">occurred</a> in China, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1808069/">H5N1 </a>since 2003 and <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/pdf/10.1056/NEJMoa1304617">H7N9</a> in 2013.

It is no wonder, therefore, that China has devoted an enormous amount of scientific resources to the study of those coronaviruses.

Although no bird-to-human transmissions of infectious bronchitis virus have been reported, there are <a href="https://jvi.asm.org/content/jvi/1/5/1019.full.pdf">similar </a>human virus strains.

More importantly, however, potential human infection by the Beaudette strain of avian infectious bronchitis virus was <a href="https://jvi.asm.org/content/92/19/e01044-18.full">demonstrated </a>in the laboratory through viral adaptation by multiple passages of the virus in mammalian cell cultures.

That viral adaptation was attributed to the S2 subunit of the spike glycoprotein, in particular, the “Beaudette-specific motif,” <a href="https://jvi.asm.org/content/92/19/e01044-18.full">containing</a> the polybasic amino acid sequence of Arginine-Arginine-Lysine-Arginine beginning at the 686 positions.

It is well known that such proteases-sensitive, e.g. furin, polybasic cleavage sites play important roles in the pathogenicity of <a href="https://jvi.asm.org/content/jvi/83/17/8744.full.pdf">bird influenza</a> and <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0042682217304403">cat peritonitis</a> coronavirus infections.

It may not be a coincidence that COVID-19 also has a polybasic cleavage site with a similar amino acid sequence of Arginine-Arginine-Alanine-Arginine inserted at position 682, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0166354220300528">reportedly</a> near the S1-S2 junction of the spike glycoprotein, not at the S2′ location as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-china-may-have-manufactured-covid-19-293388">previously stated</a>.

COVID-19’s polybasic amino acid sequence does not occur in any of the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-020-0820-9">yet identified </a>naturally-occurring bat coronavirus "relatives" of COVID-19.

So, that unique feature of COVID-19 arose from a yet unknown and perhaps a statistically unlikely naturally-occurring recombinant event or by intentional genetic manipulation.

That is, a Chinese laboratory may have bioengineered a furin polybasic cleavage site into a bat coronavirus in order to study its effects on pathogenicity in the same way the “Beaudette-specific motif” was studied to determine the ability of avian viruses to infect mammals.

Let’s be clear, although the Chinese government, some Western scientists and the mainstream media have tried to stifle debate by insisting that COVID-19 was a naturally-occurring transmission from animals to humans originating in the Wuhan Seafood Market, so far, no one knows its origin. &nbsp;

There is no doubt that Chinese scientists have the knowledge and the techniques to<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nm.3985"> manufacture</a> new viruses by combining the properties of two or more viruses as “chimeras”, described in patent US9884895B2, and the <a href="https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/aalas/cm/2007/00000057/00000005/art00003">animal models</a> to test the ability of those new viruses to infect humans.

Given the illness, death and economic destruction caused by COVID-19, it is the responsibility of the Chinese government to fully open its research files and databases to international inspection, including information about the hundreds of coronavirus isolates it has stockpiled, in order to ascertain the true origin of the Chinese COVID-19 coronavirus. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Avian (bird) influenza virus and avian infectious bronchitis virus are coronaviruses, which elicit similar symptoms, are major pathogens long-circulating in Chinese poultry populations and have resulted in great economic losses for China due to respiratory disease and reduced egg production.

Avian (bird) influenza virus and avian infectious bronchitis virus are coronaviruses, which elicit similar symptoms, are major pathogens long-circulating in Chinese poultry populations and have resulted in great economic losses for China due to respiratory disease and reduced egg production. Avian influenza viruses are capable of infecting humans and multiple outbreaks have occurred in China, H5N1 since 2003 and H7N9 in 2013. It is no wonder, therefore, that China has devoted an enormous amount of scientific resources to the study of those coronaviruses. Although no bird-to-human transmissions of infectious bronchitis virus have been reported, there are similar human virus strains. More importantly, however, potential human infection by the Beaudette strain of avian infectious bronchitis virus was demonstrated in the laboratory through viral adaptation by multiple passages of the virus in mammalian cell cultures. That viral adaptation was attributed to the S2 subunit of the spike glycoprotein, in particular, the “Beaudette-specific motif,” containing the polybasic amino acid sequence of Arginine-Arginine-Lysine-Arginine beginning at the 686 positions. It is well known that such proteases-sensitive, e.g. furin, polybasic cleavage sites play important roles in the pathogenicity of bird influenza and cat peritonitis coronavirus infections. It may not be a coincidence that COVID-19 also has a polybasic cleavage site with a similar amino acid sequence of Arginine-Arginine-Alanine-Arginine inserted at position 682, reportedly near the S1-S2 junction of the spike glycoprotein, not at the S2′ location as previously stated. COVID-19’s polybasic amino acid sequence does not occur in any of the yet identified naturally-occurring bat coronavirus "relatives" of COVID-19. So, that unique feature of COVID-19 arose from a yet unknown and perhaps a statistically unlikely naturally-occurring recombinant event or by intentional genetic manipulation. That is, a Chinese laboratory may have bioengineered a furin polybasic cleavage site into a bat coronavirus in order to study its effects on pathogenicity in the same way the “Beaudette-specific motif” was studied to determine the ability of avian viruses to infect mammals. Let’s be clear, although the Chinese government, some Western scientists and the mainstream media have tried to stifle debate by insisting that COVID-19 was a naturally-occurring transmission from animals to humans originating in the Wuhan Seafood Market, so far, no one knows its origin. There is no doubt that Chinese scientists have the knowledge and the techniques to manufacture new viruses by combining the properties of two or more viruses as “chimeras”, described in patent US9884895B2, and the animal models to test the ability of those new viruses to infect humans. Given the illness, death and economic destruction caused by COVID-19, it is the responsibility of the Chinese government to fully open its research files and databases to international inspection, including information about the hundreds of coronavirus isolates it has stockpiled, in order to ascertain the true origin of the Chinese COVID-19 coronavirus. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

COVID-19 has a unique feature pointing to its origin

If there is one app that has shot to fame during the lockdown period, it’s the video-conferencing app zoom. By now, many of you must be using the app for professional or personal reasons. Not just adults, even school children in various countries are using it for their online classes. While the app is becoming popular, it’s also receiving a lot of flak. There are many questions surrounding the controversial app, and here are the answers:

Why are so many people using Zoom app for video calls? 
&nbsp; 
During the lockdown period, video calls have increased on all messaging platforms including Whatsapp, Facebook Messenger and Google Hangouts, but Zoom has turned out to be a star. The reason behind its growing popularity is simple. It’s easy to use and free for a fair amount of time. Most importantly, it can accommodate a large number of people at a time. It lets as many as 100 people simultaneously attend a video-conference and allows 40 minutes of free time. In fact, Zoom has lifted the 40-minute limit on free accounts for teachers in many countries. The cherry on top is its interesting interface. One of the zoom settings allows users to change the backdrop image, which means user can hide what’s really behind them. 
&nbsp; 
What’s wrong with Zoom app? 
&nbsp; 
Now that the app is being heavily used and offering users a lot of interesting features, what could possibly be wrong with it? Why are users worldwide criticising it? It’s not too tough to guess the reason. The app is being slammed over security and privacy issues.

Firstly, Zoom isn’t fully end-to-end encrypted, which means the shared content is not protected between users. Third parties such as the company itself may have access to it. It’s a little strange to not have a fully encrypted service in times when old products like Whatsapp and Facetime are offering end-to-end encryption.

Secondly, many users have complained of hacking attempts during the ongoing sessions. Miscreants have intruded the livestreams, showed obscene images and made lewd remarks. This act of hijacking meetings on Zoom is also referred to as zoombombing. In other words, “Zoombombing” is when uninvited participants interrupt a video meeting and try to derail it.

The concerns around the app are so severe that Elon Musk’s SpaceX and Google have even banned their employees from using the app. 
 
WATCH: Zoom app: Should you be using it? 
&nbsp;

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Should you use the Zoom app?&nbsp;

Now comes the next important question - if there are security-related issues with the app, should you still be using it? 
&nbsp; 
It’s true that Zoom has addressed vulnerabilities in the app and apologised for its security lapses. The company, in fact, says it will continue to take stringent measures to make the service more secure. Whatever said and done, if you still need to use the app then here are some best practices so that you are not hacked during zoom meetings. 
&nbsp; 
1. Share your meeting IDs carefully. Never post them on social media where everyone can see it. 
&nbsp; 
2. Make your meetings password protected. it will prevent unwanted attendees from breaking into livestreams 
&nbsp; 
3. Hosts can decide that no one joins a meeting before them 
&nbsp; 
4. Lock your meetings once everyone has joined. Once done, no other person can then be part of the meeting. 
&nbsp; 
5. Turn off screen sharing for participants. It will help stop would-be hackers from showing offensive content during meetings. 
&nbsp; 
All in all, follow these best practices and be careful. But if you don’t want to use zoom anymore, note that there are other alternatives too - such as Skype, Microsoft Teams, Facebook &nbsp;Messenger, Google Duo and Facetime for Apple users. You can figure out your needs and accordingly pick one of them.

If there is one app that has shot to fame during the lockdown period, it’s the video-conferencing app zoom. By now, many of you must be using the app for professional or personal reasons.

If there is one app that has shot to fame during the lockdown period, it’s the video-conferencing app zoom. By now, many of you must be using the app for professional or personal reasons. Not just adults, even school children in various countries are using it for their online classes. While the app is becoming popular, it’s also receiving a lot of flak. There are many questions surrounding the controversial app, and here are the answers: Why are so many people using Zoom app for video calls? During the lockdown period, video calls have increased on all messaging platforms including Whatsapp, Facebook Messenger and Google Hangouts, but Zoom has turned out to be a star. The reason behind its growing popularity is simple. It’s easy to use and free for a fair amount of time. Most importantly, it can accommodate a large number of people at a time. It lets as many as 100 people simultaneously attend a video-conference and allows 40 minutes of free time. In fact, Zoom has lifted the 40-minute limit on free accounts for teachers in many countries. The cherry on top is its interesting interface. One of the zoom settings allows users to change the backdrop image, which means user can hide what’s really behind them. What’s wrong with Zoom app? Now that the app is being heavily used and offering users a lot of interesting features, what could possibly be wrong with it? Why are users worldwide criticising it? It’s not too tough to guess the reason. The app is being slammed over security and privacy issues. Firstly, Zoom isn’t fully end-to-end encrypted, which means the shared content is not protected between users. Third parties such as the company itself may have access to it. It’s a little strange to not have a fully encrypted service in times when old products like Whatsapp and Facetime are offering end-to-end encryption. Secondly, many users have complained of hacking attempts during the ongoing sessions. Miscreants have intruded the livestreams, showed obscene images and made lewd remarks. This act of hijacking meetings on Zoom is also referred to as zoombombing. In other words, “Zoombombing” is when uninvited participants interrupt a video meeting and try to derail it. The concerns around the app are so severe that Elon Musk’s SpaceX and Google have even banned their employees from using the app. WATCH: Zoom app: Should you be using it? × Should you use the Zoom app? Now comes the next important question - if there are security-related issues with the app, should you still be using it? It’s true that Zoom has addressed vulnerabilities in the app and apologised for its security lapses. The company, in fact, says it will continue to take stringent measures to make the service more secure. Whatever said and done, if you still need to use the app then here are some best practices so that you are not hacked during zoom meetings. 1. Share your meeting IDs carefully. Never post them on social media where everyone can see it. 2. Make your meetings password protected. it will prevent unwanted attendees from breaking into livestreams 3. Hosts can decide that no one joins a meeting before them 4. Lock your meetings once everyone has joined. Once done, no other person can then be part of the meeting. 5. Turn off screen sharing for participants. It will help stop would-be hackers from showing offensive content during meetings. All in all, follow these best practices and be careful. But if you don’t want to use zoom anymore, note that there are other alternatives too - such as Skype, Microsoft Teams, Facebook Messenger, Google Duo and Facetime for Apple users. You can figure out your needs and accordingly pick one of them.

Should you be using the video-conferencing app Zoom?

By Stephan Lewandowsky and John Cook

The number of coronavirus infections and deaths continues to rise at an alarming rate, reminding us that this crisis is far from over. In response, the global scientific community has thrown itself at the problem and research is unfolding at an unprecedented rate.

The new virus was identified, along with its natural origins, and tests for it were rapidly developed. Labs across the world are racing to develop a vaccine, which is estimated to be still around 12 to 18 months away.

At the same time, the pandemic has been accompanied by an infodemic of nonsense, disinformation, half-truths and conspiracy theories that have spread virally through social networks. This damages society in a variety of ways. For example, the myth that COVID-19 is less dangerous than the seasonal flu was deployed by US President Donald Trump as justification for delaying mitigation policies.

The recent downgrading of COVID-19 death projections, which reveal the success of social-distancing policies, has been falsely used to justify premature relaxing of social distancing measures. This is the logical equivalent of throwing away your umbrella in a rainstorm because it’s kept you dry until then.

The new conspiracy theory that blames COVID-19 on the 5G broadband system is one of the most bizarre pieces of misinformation. There are several strains of this theory, ranging from the claims that 5G alters people’s immune systems to the idea that 5G changes people’s DNA, making them more susceptible to infection. Then there’s the idea that secret messages about 5G and coronavirus were hidden in the design of the new £20 note in the UK. In reality, 5G relates to viruses and banknotes as much as the tooth fairy relates to zoology – not at all.

The 5G conspiracy theory originated in early March when an American physician, Thomas Cowan, proposed it in a YouTube video (which has since been taken down by YouTube according to their new policy). Some people have taken this conspiracy theory so seriously that it led to people setting 5G towers in the UK on fire and threatening broadband engineers.

The conspiracy theory has begun to penetrate mainstream society. Among other celebrities, UK TV personality Eamonn Holmes and US actor Woody Harrelson have given fuel to the idea.

Inoculating against conspiracy theories 
 
As we document in our recent Conspiracy Theory Handbook, there is a great deal of scientific research into why people might be susceptible to conspiracy theories. When people suffer loss of control or feel threatened, it makes them more vulnerable to believing conspiracies. Unfortunately, this means that pandemics have always been breeding grounds for conspiracy theories, from antisemitic hysteria during the Black Death to today’s 5G craze.

An effective strategy for preventing conspiracy theories from spreading through social networks is, appropriately enough, inoculation. As we document in the Conspiracy Theory Handbook, if we inoculate the public by pre-emptively warning them of misleading misinformation, they develop resilience and are less likely to be negatively influenced. Inoculating messages can take several forms. As well as giving people the right facts, inoculation can also be logic-based and source-based.

Questioning the sources 
 
The source-based approach focuses on analysing the people who push the conspiracy theory and the cultural infrastructure from which they emerged.

For example, the 5G theory began with Thomas Cowan, a physician whose medical licence is on a five-year probation. He is currently prohibited from providing cancer treatment to patients and supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. So we can question his credentials.

His 5G video was from a talk he presented at a pseudo-scientific conference featuring a who’s who of science deniers. One of the headliners was Andrew Wakefield, a debarred former physician and seminal figure in the anti-vaccination movement who promotes highly damaging misinformation about vaccination based on data that he is known to have falsified.

Another attendee of this meeting was the president of Doctors for Disaster Preparedness, an organisation famous for bestowing awards onto fossil-fuel funded climate deniers and for giving a platform to a speaker who denied the link between HIV and AIDS, claiming that the link was invented by government scientists who wanted to cover up other health risks of “the lifestyle of homosexual men.”

For the public to be protected against the 5G conspiracy theory, it is important to understand its emergence from the same infrastructure that also supports AIDS denial, anti-vaccination conspiracies and climate denial.

It is therefore unsurprising that the rhetorical techniques that are deployed against the seriousness of climate change are similar to those used to mismanage the COVID-19 crisis.

Questioning the logic 
 
Another way to neutralise conspiracy theories is through logic-based inoculation. This involves explaining the rhetorical techniques and tell-tale traits to be found in misinformation, so that people can flag it before it has a chance to mislead them. In the Conspiracy Theory Handbook, we document seven traits of conspiratorial thinking. Spotting these can help people identify a baseless theory. 
 
One trait that is particularly salient in the 5G conspiracy theory is re-interpreting randomness. With this thought pattern, random events are re-interpreted as being causally connected and woven into a broader, interconnected pattern.

For example, the introduction of 5G in 2019 coincided with the origin of COVID-19 and hence is interpreted to be causally related. But by that logic, other factors that were introduced in 2019 – say, the global phenomenon of Baby Yoda – could also be interpreted as a possible cause of COVID-19. Correlation does not equal causation. The 5G conspiracy theory is also immune to evidence, despite having been debunked extensively. To illustrate, some of the countries worst affected by the pandemic (such as Iran) do not have any 5G technology.

Of course, 5G has nothing to do with a virus. In the US, T-Mobile’s low-band 5G data is transmitted using old UHF TV channels. UHF TV did not cause coronavirus and neither does 5G.

The crucial role of social media platforms 
 
Social media platforms contribute to the problem of misinformation by providing the means for it to quickly and freely disseminate to the general public. Given that 330,000 lives were lost in relation to AIDS in South Africa during the presidency of Thabo Mbeki, when denying the disease’s link to HIV was official state policy. Given that people in the UK are now vandalizing potentially life-saving communication infrastructure, social media companies should not aid and abet the life-threatening disinformation that is spewed by a nexus of science deniers and conspiracy theorists.

To their credit, these firms are making an effort to be part of the solution to the problem of misinformation. For example, YouTube has announced that it will take down any video that espouses the 5G conspiracy theory. This is a move in the right direction.

There is considerable room for improvement, however. A recent test by the non-profit Disinfo.eu laboratory found much conspiratorial content on various social media platforms, and we were able to find hundreds of YouTube videos promulgating the 5G nonsense with a few keystrokes. 
 
(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/coronavirus-conspiracy-theories-are-dangerous-heres-how-to-stop-them-spreading-136564">original article</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;

(Stephan Lewandowsky is Chair of Cognitive Psychology, University of Bristol; John Cook is 
Research Assistant Professor, Center for Climate Change Communication, George Mason University)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

By Stephan Lewandowsky and John Cook The number of coronavirus infections and deaths continues to rise at an alarming rate, reminding us that this crisis is far from over.

By Stephan Lewandowsky and John Cook The number of coronavirus infections and deaths continues to rise at an alarming rate, reminding us that this crisis is far from over. In response, the global scientific community has thrown itself at the problem and research is unfolding at an unprecedented rate. The new virus was identified, along with its natural origins, and tests for it were rapidly developed. Labs across the world are racing to develop a vaccine, which is estimated to be still around 12 to 18 months away. At the same time, the pandemic has been accompanied by an infodemic of nonsense, disinformation, half-truths and conspiracy theories that have spread virally through social networks. This damages society in a variety of ways. For example, the myth that COVID-19 is less dangerous than the seasonal flu was deployed by US President Donald Trump as justification for delaying mitigation policies. The recent downgrading of COVID-19 death projections, which reveal the success of social-distancing policies, has been falsely used to justify premature relaxing of social distancing measures. This is the logical equivalent of throwing away your umbrella in a rainstorm because it’s kept you dry until then. The new conspiracy theory that blames COVID-19 on the 5G broadband system is one of the most bizarre pieces of misinformation. There are several strains of this theory, ranging from the claims that 5G alters people’s immune systems to the idea that 5G changes people’s DNA, making them more susceptible to infection. Then there’s the idea that secret messages about 5G and coronavirus were hidden in the design of the new £20 note in the UK. In reality, 5G relates to viruses and banknotes as much as the tooth fairy relates to zoology – not at all. The 5G conspiracy theory originated in early March when an American physician, Thomas Cowan, proposed it in a YouTube video (which has since been taken down by YouTube according to their new policy). Some people have taken this conspiracy theory so seriously that it led to people setting 5G towers in the UK on fire and threatening broadband engineers. The conspiracy theory has begun to penetrate mainstream society. Among other celebrities, UK TV personality Eamonn Holmes and US actor Woody Harrelson have given fuel to the idea. Inoculating against conspiracy theories As we document in our recent Conspiracy Theory Handbook, there is a great deal of scientific research into why people might be susceptible to conspiracy theories. When people suffer loss of control or feel threatened, it makes them more vulnerable to believing conspiracies. Unfortunately, this means that pandemics have always been breeding grounds for conspiracy theories, from antisemitic hysteria during the Black Death to today’s 5G craze. An effective strategy for preventing conspiracy theories from spreading through social networks is, appropriately enough, inoculation. As we document in the Conspiracy Theory Handbook, if we inoculate the public by pre-emptively warning them of misleading misinformation, they develop resilience and are less likely to be negatively influenced. Inoculating messages can take several forms. As well as giving people the right facts, inoculation can also be logic-based and source-based. Questioning the sources The source-based approach focuses on analysing the people who push the conspiracy theory and the cultural infrastructure from which they emerged. For example, the 5G theory began with Thomas Cowan, a physician whose medical licence is on a five-year probation. He is currently prohibited from providing cancer treatment to patients and supervising physician assistants and advanced practice nurses. So we can question his credentials. His 5G video was from a talk he presented at a pseudo-scientific conference featuring a who’s who of science deniers. One of the headliners was Andrew Wakefield, a debarred former physician and seminal figure in the anti-vaccination movement who promotes highly damaging misinformation about vaccination based on data that he is known to have falsified. Another attendee of this meeting was the president of Doctors for Disaster Preparedness, an organisation famous for bestowing awards onto fossil-fuel funded climate deniers and for giving a platform to a speaker who denied the link between HIV and AIDS, claiming that the link was invented by government scientists who wanted to cover up other health risks of “the lifestyle of homosexual men.” For the public to be protected against the 5G conspiracy theory, it is important to understand its emergence from the same infrastructure that also supports AIDS denial, anti-vaccination conspiracies and climate denial. It is therefore unsurprising that the rhetorical techniques that are deployed against the seriousness of climate change are similar to those used to mismanage the COVID-19 crisis. Questioning the logic Another way to neutralise conspiracy theories is through logic-based inoculation. This involves explaining the rhetorical techniques and tell-tale traits to be found in misinformation, so that people can flag it before it has a chance to mislead them. In the Conspiracy Theory Handbook, we document seven traits of conspiratorial thinking. Spotting these can help people identify a baseless theory. One trait that is particularly salient in the 5G conspiracy theory is re-interpreting randomness. With this thought pattern, random events are re-interpreted as being causally connected and woven into a broader, interconnected pattern. For example, the introduction of 5G in 2019 coincided with the origin of COVID-19 and hence is interpreted to be causally related. But by that logic, other factors that were introduced in 2019 – say, the global phenomenon of Baby Yoda – could also be interpreted as a possible cause of COVID-19. Correlation does not equal causation. The 5G conspiracy theory is also immune to evidence, despite having been debunked extensively. To illustrate, some of the countries worst affected by the pandemic (such as Iran) do not have any 5G technology. Of course, 5G has nothing to do with a virus. In the US, T-Mobile’s low-band 5G data is transmitted using old UHF TV channels. UHF TV did not cause coronavirus and neither does 5G. The crucial role of social media platforms Social media platforms contribute to the problem of misinformation by providing the means for it to quickly and freely disseminate to the general public. Given that 330,000 lives were lost in relation to AIDS in South Africa during the presidency of Thabo Mbeki, when denying the disease’s link to HIV was official state policy. Given that people in the UK are now vandalizing potentially life-saving communication infrastructure, social media companies should not aid and abet the life-threatening disinformation that is spewed by a nexus of science deniers and conspiracy theorists. To their credit, these firms are making an effort to be part of the solution to the problem of misinformation. For example, YouTube has announced that it will take down any video that espouses the 5G conspiracy theory. This is a move in the right direction. There is considerable room for improvement, however. A recent test by the non-profit Disinfo.eu laboratory found much conspiratorial content on various social media platforms, and we were able to find hundreds of YouTube videos promulgating the 5G nonsense with a few keystrokes. (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Stephan Lewandowsky is Chair of Cognitive Psychology, University of Bristol; John Cook is Research Assistant Professor, Center for Climate Change Communication, George Mason University) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Coronavirus conspiracy theories are dangerous – here’s how to stop them spreading

In December 2019, the first case of COVID-19 was detected in Wuhan, the capital city of Hubei province of China. The Chinese media has stated that the virus originated from bats, pinning the source of origin to the food market in Wuhan which sold a number of wild animals including bats. But all this is in the realm of speculation. It would not be out of order to consider other possibilities of the source of the outbreak of the virus, especially one having military connotations.

Could the virus have originated from one of the virology laboratories located in Wuhan? Could this have been a planned trial by the Chinese of a biological weapon which could carry out mass destruction? Or was this an accidental leak? This too is a matter of conjecture, but as the potential consequences of the spread of the Wuhan virus are so cataclysmic, each and every possibility needs thorough examination and cannot be brushed under the carpet.

Let us examine the hypothesis that this was a planned Chinese biological warfare weapon, which they let loose on the world, first exposing their own residents to the virus, but restricting its impact so that neither Beijing nor Shanghai was impacted. The capacity of the virus to kill is limited, and the data from China shows that over 80 per cent of COVID-19 cases are either asymptomatic or have mild disease. But the fact that the virus spreads very fast once it is introduced to a population, makes it lethal. As an example, if one million people are infected in an area, while 80 per cent will recover quickly, most not even knowing that they are sick, at least 200,000 will require hospitalisation, which is a very large number putting a huge strain on the civic infrastructure and causing governments to impose a lockdown to prevent further spread. The fatalities will be even lesser, perhaps in the range of 20,000 or so, but the impact on the nation’s economy will be crippling. Today, besides India, the US, Europe, Japan, ASEAN, the Gulf countries and others have been seriously impacted, with their economies taking a severe hit.

The Chinese economy, while the hit to some extent, appears to have recovered and is projected to grow at 2.5 per cent. While this is the lowest rate of growth for China in decades, it is far better than the projected rate of growth in Europe and India, which is close to zero per cent. So, if this was a planned biological attack by the Chinese, then they have succeeded in full measure as the Western economies stand crippled and may well go into recession. This puts China in the pole position.

Major stock exchanges across the world have taken a drubbing with the coronavirus pandemic shaving off nearly a third of the global market cap. But interestingly, the Chinese stock exchange has emerged almost unscathed amid the global market rout. With supply chains and global demand being disrupted, a great deal of uncertainty has been created over the long term. China appears to be in a good position to weather the storm and emerge as the market leader, post the pandemic. With stocks tumbling, China is being stocked at reduced rates and in India, has already picked up a one per cent stake in HDFC.

In mid-January, President Donald Trump signed an initial trade deal with China, bringing to a close, the first chapter of a protracted and economically damaging trade war, which was hurting China’s economy. Based on the terms of the agreement, China agreed to buy $12.5 billion in the US agricultural products in 2020 and a further $19.5 billion in 2021. However, with the pandemic raging across the world, the trade deal is as good as dead, which will be a source of dissatisfaction to the US.

Beijing has ratcheted up the pressure on Taiwan, which it seeks to reunite with the mainland. In February, while carrying out military drills, Chinese jets crossed an unofficial middle line in the Taiwan Strait. A day earlier, Chinese fighters and bombers flew around the island. Then in early April, a Chinese naval flotilla led by the country’s first aircraft carrier passed by the eastern and southern coasts of Taiwan to carry out drills. These acts are coercive and designed to put pressure on Taiwan at a time when the world is battling the coronavirus. China is also ramping up pressure on its claim areas in the South China Sea. Chinese belligerence is a deliberate show of force, cocking a snook at the world.

Coincidentally, at this time, the US naval fleet has been hit by the coronavirus. Of the 11 aircraft carriers in the US Navy's fleet, the crew in three of the aircraft carriers are reported to have been infected. More than half the crew of the USS Theodore Roosevelt have been disembarked at Guam, which shows how a virus can impact military capability. So, at a time when the Chinese are getting belligerent in the Indo-Pacific, the US naval fleet finds a part of its crew disabled due to the coronavirus. The USS Ronald Reagan, presently docked in Yokosuka, Japan, is for the moment the only available aircraft carrier to project power in the western Pacific, to counter potential hostilities from China.

India needs to be concerned as China claims a large chunk&nbsp;of Indian Territory in Arunachal Pradesh and is in illegal occupation of the Aksai Chin. If China is moving in the direction of using biological weapons, then India needs to be prepared accordingly. This is no longer in the realm of science fiction as portrayed in the film Contagion. Biological weapons can destroy a nation's economy and seriously degrade its military potential. It is a reality thrust upon us, which we can ignore only at our peril.

&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

In December 2019, the first case of COVID-19 was detected in Wuhan, the capital city of Hubei province of China. The Chinese media has stated that the virus originated from bats, pinning the source of origin to the food market in Wuhan which sold a number of wild animals including bats.

In December 2019, the first case of COVID-19 was detected in Wuhan, the capital city of Hubei province of China. The Chinese media has stated that the virus originated from bats, pinning the source of origin to the food market in Wuhan which sold a number of wild animals including bats. But all this is in the realm of speculation. It would not be out of order to consider other possibilities of the source of the outbreak of the virus, especially one having military connotations. Could the virus have originated from one of the virology laboratories located in Wuhan? Could this have been a planned trial by the Chinese of a biological weapon which could carry out mass destruction? Or was this an accidental leak? This too is a matter of conjecture, but as the potential consequences of the spread of the Wuhan virus are so cataclysmic, each and every possibility needs thorough examination and cannot be brushed under the carpet. Let us examine the hypothesis that this was a planned Chinese biological warfare weapon, which they let loose on the world, first exposing their own residents to the virus, but restricting its impact so that neither Beijing nor Shanghai was impacted. The capacity of the virus to kill is limited, and the data from China shows that over 80 per cent of COVID-19 cases are either asymptomatic or have mild disease. But the fact that the virus spreads very fast once it is introduced to a population, makes it lethal. As an example, if one million people are infected in an area, while 80 per cent will recover quickly, most not even knowing that they are sick, at least 200,000 will require hospitalisation, which is a very large number putting a huge strain on the civic infrastructure and causing governments to impose a lockdown to prevent further spread. The fatalities will be even lesser, perhaps in the range of 20,000 or so, but the impact on the nation’s economy will be crippling. Today, besides India, the US, Europe, Japan, ASEAN, the Gulf countries and others have been seriously impacted, with their economies taking a severe hit. The Chinese economy, while the hit to some extent, appears to have recovered and is projected to grow at 2.5 per cent. While this is the lowest rate of growth for China in decades, it is far better than the projected rate of growth in Europe and India, which is close to zero per cent. So, if this was a planned biological attack by the Chinese, then they have succeeded in full measure as the Western economies stand crippled and may well go into recession. This puts China in the pole position. Major stock exchanges across the world have taken a drubbing with the coronavirus pandemic shaving off nearly a third of the global market cap. But interestingly, the Chinese stock exchange has emerged almost unscathed amid the global market rout. With supply chains and global demand being disrupted, a great deal of uncertainty has been created over the long term. China appears to be in a good position to weather the storm and emerge as the market leader, post the pandemic. With stocks tumbling, China is being stocked at reduced rates and in India, has already picked up a one per cent stake in HDFC. In mid-January, President Donald Trump signed an initial trade deal with China, bringing to a close, the first chapter of a protracted and economically damaging trade war, which was hurting China’s economy. Based on the terms of the agreement, China agreed to buy $12.5 billion in the US agricultural products in 2020 and a further $19.5 billion in 2021. However, with the pandemic raging across the world, the trade deal is as good as dead, which will be a source of dissatisfaction to the US. Beijing has ratcheted up the pressure on Taiwan, which it seeks to reunite with the mainland. In February, while carrying out military drills, Chinese jets crossed an unofficial middle line in the Taiwan Strait. A day earlier, Chinese fighters and bombers flew around the island. Then in early April, a Chinese naval flotilla led by the country’s first aircraft carrier passed by the eastern and southern coasts of Taiwan to carry out drills. These acts are coercive and designed to put pressure on Taiwan at a time when the world is battling the coronavirus. China is also ramping up pressure on its claim areas in the South China Sea. Chinese belligerence is a deliberate show of force, cocking a snook at the world. Coincidentally, at this time, the US naval fleet has been hit by the coronavirus. Of the 11 aircraft carriers in the US Navy's fleet, the crew in three of the aircraft carriers are reported to have been infected. More than half the crew of the USS Theodore Roosevelt have been disembarked at Guam, which shows how a virus can impact military capability. So, at a time when the Chinese are getting belligerent in the Indo-Pacific, the US naval fleet finds a part of its crew disabled due to the coronavirus. The USS Ronald Reagan, presently docked in Yokosuka, Japan, is for the moment the only available aircraft carrier to project power in the western Pacific, to counter potential hostilities from China. India needs to be concerned as China claims a large chunk of Indian Territory in Arunachal Pradesh and is in illegal occupation of the Aksai Chin. If China is moving in the direction of using biological weapons, then India needs to be prepared accordingly. This is no longer in the realm of science fiction as portrayed in the film Contagion. Biological weapons can destroy a nation's economy and seriously degrade its military potential. It is a reality thrust upon us, which we can ignore only at our peril. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How coronavirus impacts the military capability

What are the WHO Director-General's allegations on Taiwan?&nbsp;

The World Health Organisation (WHO) Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in a press conference held on April 8 in Geneva, accused Taiwan of orchestrating attacks on him using the “N” word, racist slur even the death threats. He alleged that Taiwan’s foreign ministry and diplomats were behind this coordinated attack on him.&nbsp;

How Taiwan reacted to these allegations?&nbsp;

Taiwan foreign ministry released a press statement saying that, “It deeply regrets baseless allegations by WHO Director-General”.The statement further said that for long Taiwanese have faced “political discrimination and feeling of exclusion” to participate in the WHO. Taiwan claimed, despite being a non-member it has warned the WHO of initial community transmission in December 2019, nevertheless WHO failed to act responsibly and instead prevented Taiwan from access to WHO health networks. It further demanded an apology by the Director-General for baseless allegations.&nbsp;

Why is Taiwan not a member of the WHO?&nbsp;

Since Taiwan is not a full member of the United Nations it cannot become a full member of the WHO. China, being a permanent member of UNSC, has blocked Taiwan's access to WHO. It has even deprived Taiwan of its ‘observer status’ which it used to enjoy from 2009 to 2016. China has pressed Taiwan to either accept “One-China Principle” or else loose "observer-status".&nbsp;

Why is China not allowing Taiwan to enter WHO?&nbsp;

China demands a commitment to the 'One-China Principle' as a precondition for its entry into any bilateral and multilateral relations, recognising that there is only one-China and that is the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan is an integral part of it. While Taiwan (Republic of China) represents a thriving democracy and an alternative political system that could pose a threat to the ruling communist party. International organisations like WHO and private enterprises are the main part of Beijing's long-term strategy to win over Taiwan, for completing its long-term goal of national reunification. Their motive is to curtail Taiwan’s independence and reducing its external sovereignty-by gradually reducing its recognition by states.

What are the consequences of Taiwan being excluded from WHO?&nbsp;

With Taiwan being excluded from key UN organisations that handle disease prevention, including the WHO, denies Taiwan crucial information regarding expert briefings, prevention measures. Being one of the best health-care systems in the world, Taiwan has much to offer in control the spread of the pandemic.&nbsp;

What is Taiwan doing to gain membership of WHO?&nbsp;

With the outbreak of coronavirus, the campaign for Taiwan to enter the WHO is back in the news, with multiple countries expressing their support to the country. President Tsai Ing-wen reiterated the importance of Taiwan's position in global health issues at a reception with European guests. Members of the Taiwan UN Alliance and the Global Taiwan Medical Alliance, in a news conference at the legislature, blasted the WHO and International Civil Aviation Organisation for excluding Taiwan from access to information about the coronavirus outbreak. &nbsp;

How is the international community reacting to Taiwan’s membership of WHO?&nbsp;

There is a renewed support from the European Union, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to grant Taiwan 'observer status' in the World Health Assembly. The US Congress also passed a bill seeking for Taiwan to gain access to observer status.&nbsp;

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What are the WHO Director-General's allegations on Taiwan? The World Health Organisation (WHO) Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in a press conference held on April 8 in Geneva, accused Taiwan of orchestrating attacks on him using the “N” word, racist slur even the death threats.

What are the WHO Director-General's allegations on Taiwan? The World Health Organisation (WHO) Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in a press conference held on April 8 in Geneva, accused Taiwan of orchestrating attacks on him using the “N” word, racist slur even the death threats. He alleged that Taiwan’s foreign ministry and diplomats were behind this coordinated attack on him. How Taiwan reacted to these allegations? Taiwan foreign ministry released a press statement saying that, “It deeply regrets baseless allegations by WHO Director-General”.The statement further said that for long Taiwanese have faced “political discrimination and feeling of exclusion” to participate in the WHO. Taiwan claimed, despite being a non-member it has warned the WHO of initial community transmission in December 2019, nevertheless WHO failed to act responsibly and instead prevented Taiwan from access to WHO health networks. It further demanded an apology by the Director-General for baseless allegations. Why is Taiwan not a member of the WHO? Since Taiwan is not a full member of the United Nations it cannot become a full member of the WHO. China, being a permanent member of UNSC, has blocked Taiwan's access to WHO. It has even deprived Taiwan of its ‘observer status’ which it used to enjoy from 2009 to 2016. China has pressed Taiwan to either accept “One-China Principle” or else loose "observer-status". Why is China not allowing Taiwan to enter WHO? China demands a commitment to the 'One-China Principle' as a precondition for its entry into any bilateral and multilateral relations, recognising that there is only one-China and that is the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan is an integral part of it. While Taiwan (Republic of China) represents a thriving democracy and an alternative political system that could pose a threat to the ruling communist party. International organisations like WHO and private enterprises are the main part of Beijing's long-term strategy to win over Taiwan, for completing its long-term goal of national reunification. Their motive is to curtail Taiwan’s independence and reducing its external sovereignty-by gradually reducing its recognition by states. What are the consequences of Taiwan being excluded from WHO? With Taiwan being excluded from key UN organisations that handle disease prevention, including the WHO, denies Taiwan crucial information regarding expert briefings, prevention measures. Being one of the best health-care systems in the world, Taiwan has much to offer in control the spread of the pandemic. What is Taiwan doing to gain membership of WHO? With the outbreak of coronavirus, the campaign for Taiwan to enter the WHO is back in the news, with multiple countries expressing their support to the country. President Tsai Ing-wen reiterated the importance of Taiwan's position in global health issues at a reception with European guests. Members of the Taiwan UN Alliance and the Global Taiwan Medical Alliance, in a news conference at the legislature, blasted the WHO and International Civil Aviation Organisation for excluding Taiwan from access to information about the coronavirus outbreak. How is the international community reacting to Taiwan’s membership of WHO? There is a renewed support from the European Union, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to grant Taiwan 'observer status' in the World Health Assembly. The US Congress also passed a bill seeking for Taiwan to gain access to observer status.

Explained: The conflict between the WHO and Taiwan

Pakistan has lifted restrictions on congregational prayers at mosques, but put in place a host of safety conditions to avert the further spread of the coronavirus in the country, a statement said on Saturday.

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Study predicts delay in peaking of COVID-19 cases in the US

U.S. President Donald Trump warned China on Saturday that it should face consequences if it was "knowingly responsible" for the coronavirus pandemic, as he ratcheted up criticism of Beijing over its handling of the outbreak.

Donald Trump: China could face consequences over COVID-19 pandemic

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COVID-19 cases are on rise in Afghanistan. There is lack of infrastructure and isolation centres in Afghanistan. The government has now converted Darul Aman Palace into a medical facility.

Afghanistan: Darul Aman Palace to be used as medical facility | Ground Report

President Donald Trump on Friday announced a $19 billion relief program to help U.S. farmers cope with the impact of the coronavirus, including $16 billion in direct payments to producers and mass purchases of meat, dairy, vegetables and other products.

US: Donald Trump announces $19 billion relief package for US farmers

Walmart Inc said on Friday it would hire 50,000 more workers at its stores, clubs and distribution centers to meet a surge in demand for groceries and household essentials from consumers stockpiling during the coronavirus outbreak.

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China's Wuhan has revised its death toll by 50%. The officials say 1,290 more people have died due to the coronavirus. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why China is being accused of under-reporting its coronavirus figures.

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Amidst a pandemic and the largest lockdown in history, the eighties' cult series; the 'Ramayan'&nbsp;is back on Doordarshan.

From trending on Twitter to massive viewership rewards for the state broadcaster, the good old 'Ramayan' is the new household rage in India.

With the show's re-run receiving a thumbs up from the younger generation too, the Sunday morning soap opera of the Gods is back

After hooking Indian audience in the eighties, the Ramayan's&nbsp;re-run is now dopamine to life in lockdown with zero avenues to outdoor entertainment.

Unaffected by the cliched idealism, Twitter is testimony to the soaring adulation of 'Ramayan'. A case in point was the killing of Meghnath recently aired on the series. Ramayan's mighty Lankan warrior aka Indrajit is Ravana's son.

A grey character who falls prey to his uncle Vibhishan's betrayal, and is eventually killed&nbsp;by Laxmana. Soon after, Twitter went into a tizzy, lauding Meghnath's valour

Before Meghnath was put to the sword, a meme on Lord Hanumana also went viral.

The return of Ramanand Sagar's legendary series even sparked the feminism debate on Twitter. While some users felt 'Ramayan'&nbsp;was unfair to its female characters, especially Sita, others felt the storyline champions women's empowerment.

Some slammed queen Kaikeyi and her maid Manthara, some have empathised with the sacrifice of Lakshmana's wife Urmila.

The golden days of Doordarshan were relived when memes on Lakshman became another hot favourite, so did his advice to Sita demarcating the ''Lakshman Rekha'', which for the Twitterati translated to the lockdown motto of stay home.

The show has garnered 51 million viewers in the first weekend of the telecast, the highest ever figure across the Hindi entertainment genre since 2015. 
 
Various government machinery publicised the re telecast of the show in a big way- thereby catching the attention of many.

BARC's chief executive Sunil Lulla called Prasar Bharti's move as 'brilliant' and admitted the numbers garnered by the show was surprising.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Amidst a pandemic and the largest lockdown in history, the eighties' cult series; the 'Ramayan' is back on Doordarshan. From trending on Twitter to massive viewership rewards for the state broadcaster, the good old 'Ramayan' is the new household rage in India.

Amidst a pandemic and the largest lockdown in history, the eighties' cult series; the 'Ramayan' is back on Doordarshan. From trending on Twitter to massive viewership rewards for the state broadcaster, the good old 'Ramayan' is the new household rage in India. With the show's re-run receiving a thumbs up from the younger generation too, the Sunday morning soap opera of the Gods is back After hooking Indian audience in the eighties, the Ramayan's re-run is now dopamine to life in lockdown with zero avenues to outdoor entertainment. Unaffected by the cliched idealism, Twitter is testimony to the soaring adulation of 'Ramayan'. A case in point was the killing of Meghnath recently aired on the series. Ramayan's mighty Lankan warrior aka Indrajit is Ravana's son. A grey character who falls prey to his uncle Vibhishan's betrayal, and is eventually killed by Laxmana. Soon after, Twitter went into a tizzy, lauding Meghnath's valour Before Meghnath was put to the sword, a meme on Lord Hanumana also went viral. The return of Ramanand Sagar's legendary series even sparked the feminism debate on Twitter. While some users felt 'Ramayan' was unfair to its female characters, especially Sita, others felt the storyline champions women's empowerment. Some slammed queen Kaikeyi and her maid Manthara, some have empathised with the sacrifice of Lakshmana's wife Urmila. The golden days of Doordarshan were relived when memes on Lakshman became another hot favourite, so did his advice to Sita demarcating the ''Lakshman Rekha'', which for the Twitterati translated to the lockdown motto of stay home. The show has garnered 51 million viewers in the first weekend of the telecast, the highest ever figure across the Hindi entertainment genre since 2015. Various government machinery publicised the re telecast of the show in a big way- thereby catching the attention of many. BARC's chief executive Sunil Lulla called Prasar Bharti's move as 'brilliant' and admitted the numbers garnered by the show was surprising. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus lockdown: 'Ramayan' gets thumbs up from the younger generation as well

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