Webinar on Continued Challenges of Corona Pandemic: Learning from Experience by PU

Chandigarh October 11, 2021

            The Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh organized a webinar on the topic “Continued Challenges of Corona Pandemic: Learning from Experience.”

            Prof. V.R. Sinha, Dean University Instructions, Panjab University, Chandigarh in his inaugural address accentuated the fact that though the pandemic created a havoc throughout the country it also had some underlying positive effects. It was only due to the emergence of this pandemic that the world recognized the power of Indian pharmaceuticals.

            Prof. V.M. Katoch, former Director General, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) summarized the experiences of the 20 months of COVID-19 in India. He discussed the major factors which contributed to India’s success in controlling the pandemic. According to him the India’s response to COVID-19 has been stupendous and inspiring across all levels of the country. Further in his talk Prof. Katoch discussed how lethargy, negligence and undue optimism after the first wave of COVID-19 resulted in the emergence of consecutive waves. He also underlined the part which various initiatives such as “Jagrukta abhiyan” played in empowering the population for prevention and timely management of COVID affected persons and discussed the key factors relevant for such awareness programs. He also talked about the importance of Ayurveda and yoga and the role they played in combating the post COVID complications. Prof. Katoch laid an emphasis on the correct use of mask, social distancing, personal hygiene and special care of person in high risk groups since these are the only things which can help in making the entire situation a little less complicated.

            Earlier, Dr. Deepak K. Rahi, Chairman, Department of Microbiology and the organizing secretary of the webinar gave a brief overview of the program and discussed how COVID-19 has deeply affected the society, health system, economy, and government worldwide. He highlighted the fact that a year and a half later there are still so many lessons to be learned from this once-in-a-generation phenomenon.

            Prof. Prince Sharma, summarized the discussions of the webinar in his concluding remarks.

            Dr. Seema Kumari, Assistant Professor, gave vote of thanks.