Hindu Editorial Snapshot – 03 June – 2025
Readiness, not panic: On India and COVID-19
India’s The recent uptick in COVID-19 cases in India, totaling 3,961 cases and 32 deaths since January 2025, calls for caution without inciting panic. Though the numbers may appear alarming, they remain relatively low for a country with over 1.4 billion people. The infections are primarily caused by Omicron subvariants, which are not more severe or transmissible than before. Most states are reporting low, stable daily increases, and 2,188 patients have already recovered.Caution is especially necessary for vulnerable groups with co-morbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, kidney conditions, and for individuals over 60. These groups should adopt preventive measures like masking and hand hygiene. Former WHO Chief Scientist Soumya Swaminathan emphasizes the need for booster vaccinations, particularly for at-risk populations.However, vaccine and booster availability remains a concern, even in urban areas. The government must ensure the stockpiling and equitable distribution of vaccines and diagnostic kits. Public and private hospitals must maintain readiness in terms of oxygen supply, bed capacity, and healthcare staff. Transparency in reporting COVID data is crucial to avoid the mistakes of the previous pandemic wave. Ultimately, the country must differentiate between panic and preparedness — the latter being essential and empowering.
Monsoon woes: On the southwest monsoon and the northeast
The southwest monsoon has arrived with intensity, bringing both celebration and destruction. While its Arabian Sea branch progresses from Kerala northwards, the Bay of Bengal branch hits the northeastern States early, often causing floods and landslides. This year, the impact has been severe, with Assam witnessing over three lakh people affected and 10 rivers crossing danger levels. Tripura and other northeastern States have faced torrential rains, with a regional death toll reaching 52 by May 31. In Sikkim, landslides stranded 1,500 tourists, and a bus accident on the Teesta river resulted in fatalities. Despite forecasts of below-normal rainfall, the inherently high baseline rainfall in the region ensures persistent risk. Given the additional October-December monsoon and historically inadequate infrastructure due to geographical challenges, a coordinated, long-term strategy between the Centre and northeastern States is essential to mitigate recurring disasters.
To get the hindu vocabs pdf –click here