Dr Asangba Tzudir
A statistical overview of the Covid-19 scenario in India stands at 1,58,817 active cases and 4,58,437 deaths. As for Nagaland, the total number of cases presently stands at more than 31 thousand with 216 active cases and about 670 deaths. However, what the statistics show may also be further away from the truth because the active cases does not include those who do home tests testing kits and the results be it positive or negative go unregistered.
Now, considering the times when it was at its peak, the situation now seems to be slowly coming back to normal with activities opening up through unlock relaxations. Schools and Colleges are now functioning to full capacity, and which is a cause of concern and calls for strict monitoring.
In case, thought sets in that the pandemic is about getting over, it is still far from over. In fact, the situation is still at a precarious state and if the Standard Operating Procedures are not strictly followed, the situation will get worse in no time. Besides, it is not just about ‘Nagaland under control’ but at least the immediate North-East States which are still far from normal. So, there is no room for complacency at all levels beginning from the individual up to the level of governance and calls for collective efforts besides doing one’s own to keep the Covid-19 pandemic under control.
On the economic impact, so long as the pandemic lasts the price of essential commodities will keep on skyrocketing and it has made the cost of living very dear. Commercial LPG cylinder price being hiked by Rs 266 is only going to create ripple effect. Domestic cylinder may follow a similar trend if the pandemic persist. On the whole, the economic impact of Covid-19 pandemic has been huge and it is relentless.
The month of November brings the festive joyous season and topping the festival chart is the Hornbill Festival which gets worldwide attention and attendance. In whichever format it is going to be held, the Standard Operating Procedures also need to evolve as per the format of the way the festival is held.
Vaccination alone is not enough to resist the pandemic and a lot depends on how we cautiously tread our paths while learning to live life with Corona Virus. The pandemic is far from over and the current normal like situation may just be likened to ‘the calm before the storm.’ One small mistake is going to open the floodgates and it will be difficult for the State to sustain a possible third wave. So, there is should be no room for complacency.
(Dr Asangba Tzudir writes a weekly guest editorial for The Morung Express. Comments can be mailed to asangtz@gmail.com)
