Trying Times

“I have three precious things which I hold fast and prize. The first is gentleness; the second is frugality; the third is humility, which keeps me from putting myself before others. Be gentle and you can be bold; be frugal and you can be liberal; avoid putting yourself before others and you can become a leader among men.” — Lao Tzu

The Covid-19 pandemic has proved to be a true test of endurance for humanity. The last few weeks have found humans across the globe struggle through testing times. Such trying times, usually bring out the best – and sometimes the worst – in us. History is witness to the fact that compassion and resilience are the traits that enable people to overcome the darkest phases of their lives. It is always the kind heart that wins the day.

The novel coronavirus induced situation is dynamic and fast evolving. Some parts of the world have seen a jump in cases while others have seen a partial lifting of restrictions. According to a recent briefing by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the global economy is likely to shrink by one per cent in 2020 and could contract further if the restrictions imposed on economic activities extend into the third quarter and if fiscal responses are unable to support consumer spending and income.

 Here in India, the Union government has done a signal service in mitigating the crisis. As a matter of fact, India has done far better than other countries. State governments and other authorities have done their job well too. Reports suggest that restrictions will be be eased gradually after May 17 and some economic activities will resume. In this backdrop, BW Businessworld and Primus Partners presents a study that maps initiatives taken by the states to contain the spread of the virus and keep their people safe. Read all about the efforts of each state in our cover story – ‘Battling the virus’.

 Chief Minister of Gujarat, Vipin Rupani and Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan, speak of the specific measures their states have taken to head off this crisis in exclusive conversations with BW Businessworld and its knowledge partner. In addition, leading economists and industry heads share their opinions on the current scenario and their suggestions for the post Covid-19 era. Things will be tough for the next few months and somethings may never be the same again, but we must adapt and keep going.

This particular issue also features Covid-19 best practices from across India Inc. These organisations are invested in the well-being of their stakeholders and have created innovative ways to keep their employees engaged and healthy.

Of course, as usual we have our regular columns that you look forward to. I do hope you enjoy reading this issue, as much as we did compiling it.

Happy Reading!