As we all know, we are halfway through the four weeks lockdown period declared by New Zealand government from 26th March to contain the spread of deadly and contagious Covid-19 virus. So far, New Zealanders have demonstrated that they are one of the most self-disciplined people across the globe barring some exceptions. Our disciplined and orderly behaviour to follow lockdown rules is the reason that the spread curve has slowly started looking flatter and number of the virus effected people and of fatalities are looking better as compared to rest of the world.

Unfortunately, if we look at these numbers worldwide, it presents a very grim picture of the devastation incurred by the deadly virus. Even the most powerful and developed countries of the world like USA, UK, Italy, France, Spain, Germany and Iran present a very horrifying picture of the havoc created by Covid-19 there. So far, close to a million and a half people have been infected with Corona virus worldwide and over 80,000 have lost their lives. The worst effected countries in the world today are those which initially tried to deal with this pandemic with a casual approach. USA being the most classic example, now paying a heavy price for their slackness. By far, total lockdown has proved to be the best and most effective way to stop the virus from spreading further. The numbers growing every day suggest that the worst is not over yet and the danger still looms across the globe irrespective of national boundaries and economic or military might of a country.  A small and invisible virus has brought the mightiest down to their knees. So, the mantra is to follow the rules and guidelines of government, stay home and stay in your bubble till virus is completely contained.

During last two weeks of current lockdown, I got the opportunity to touch base with many of our readers, contributors and businesses that are on board with The Indian News. Invariably all of them were very appreciative of our decision to suspend the print publication during lockdown period. They were also appreciative of the constant updating of our social media platform to keep the people of community engaged and informed. While most business activities have come to a halt due to lockdown, some resilient and brave entrepreneurs are holding court by working from home and rendering regular services to their clients. One of the top mortgages and insurance broker company of New Zealand, owned and run by a person of Indian origin, claimed to be already working on their self-developed contingency plan for last few years, Corona or no Corona. Its business as usual for their clients by providing services like any normal working day. This is a very commendable example of good work to keep spirits high even in gloomy. times.

We New Zealanders have already won half the battle by not letting the virus spread in the community. We only need to try to make the best use of this lockdown period while maintaining our bubble. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has also done a commendable job by taking an approach that was decisive and unequivocal to face the threat. Government’s approach of stamping out the disease entirely has worked well here as compared to other countries where their approach was to slow it down and flatten the curve. I would like wind up by appealing everyone to please adhere to government guideline and regular updates on Covid-19. This situation will change soon and until then please take a good care of yourself and your loved ones and stay safe.

–Yugal Parashar