Growth-oriented inclusive budGet & socially
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Vol No.48, Issue No.3
March 2021
This Issue is of 92 Pages
Single Copy Price Rs.90
Growth-oriented
& socially
inclusive budget
Finance Minister Mrs Nirmala Sitharaman
today gave a booster dose to the
economy through six pillars of mega rise
in capital expenditure on healthcare,
physical infrastructure without putting
much pressure on the taxpayers.
Mr Vineet Agarwal
ASSOCHAM President
C e l e b r a t i n g 1 0 0 Ye a r s
he
wn to impart best education through
y like Nalanda attracting students
gain the position of best educational
ducation system must undergo a
t to train and develop the emerging
rkforce to be globally at par. We
ent initiatives to establish integrated
universities and institutions by
private players to be at the forefront.
will induce better infrastructure and
grade the quality of education and
r programs.
as announced proactive initiatives
rne fair results with India’s ranking
ve steps in the Worldwide Educating
e Index (WEFFI) 2019 in teaching
ls for future. Also, as per the report
The Economist Intelligence Unit,
5th on the overall index in 2019 with
53, based on three categories – policy
teaching environment and overall
c environment. The report informs
are ranked based on their abilities
nts with skill-based education. The
em is analysed from the perspective
education with specific parameters
nking, problem-solving, leadership,
creativity and entrepreneurship,
hnical skill-set.
a also became the second largest
arning with around 9.5 million users.
he year 2021, the sector is expected
.96 billion. The government too has
ns to move ahead in this direction
ing a fiscal stimulus of Rs 99,300
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 3
22 Vol. No. 44
Vol. No. 45• Issue
IssueNo.
No.1204• December
April 20202019
n n
The budget was designed to keep an
eye on economic recovery
There is the awareness that spending on
quality infrastructure, is establishing a way for
a rapid economic recovery towards achieving
double-digit growth in 2021-22. Further, with
the announcement on the PM Gram Sadak
Yojana with an allocation of Rs 19,500 crores,
the government hopes to achieve a significant
boost to the rural economy.
T
he first budget post the COVID lockdown was a one of its kind
budget in many ways. Every rupee spent or announced in the
finance bill was expected to have a multiplier or a cascading
effect to kick start several sectors.
As an industry body, ASSOCHAM sees this budget as a culmination
of their recommendations and suggestions to propel the industry
forward in the path of recovery.
The central government has been making a very sincere effort and
must be applauded for their measures since the lockdown was
announced almost a year ago. Though these measures helped
several businesses survive, it certainly had a very strenuous pressure
on the government finances. Despite all this, the finance minister,
Smt Nirmala Sitharaman must be lauded for doing her best for
both increasing the infrastructure spending and ensuring enough
measures to take care of the health of the common man in this year’s
budget. One of the biggest reliefs for the common man was not
increasing the taxes in any manner.
Sectors like infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, defense, and
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 3
Sectors like education have seen an increase in the budgetary allocation. These sectors are
much critical in nature and by focussing the attention on these sectors reflects
infrastructure, the government’s objective of spearheading towards a $ 5trillion economy.
healthcare, The government also set up the roadmap to increase the healthcare reach
agriculture, defense, to the block and district level of India with the blueprint for research in
preventive vaccination. The announcement of the launch of the PM’s
and education have Atmanirbhar Swastha Bharat Yojana will also, give a boost to India’s
seen an increase healthcare system. The honorable finance minister has also tried to make
underperforming public sector companies more competitive and at the same
in the budgetary time induce asset monetization by announcing their disinvestment plans.
allocation. These We believe that to compete with countries like China, India needs to make
sectors are much its manufacturing sector more competitive by lowering its cost of operation.
critical in nature That is what the government has tried to do in this budget. This year, there
is an increased focus on infrastructure projects like highways, getting better
and by focussing the connectivity to ports through roads and rail for reducing the cost of logistics.
attention on these There is the awareness that spending on quality infrastructure, is establishing
sectors reflects a way for a rapid economic recovery towards achieving double-digit growth
in 2021-22. Further, with the announcement on the PM Gram Sadak Yojana
the government’s with an allocation of Rs 19,500 crores, the government hopes to achieve a
objective of significant boost to the rural economy.
spearheading In this year’s budget, the government has set the tone for the country to
become self-reliant or truly Aatmanirbhar.
towards a $ 5trillion
economy.
Vineet Agarwal
President, Assocham
4 Vol. No. 48 • Issue No. 3 • March 2021
A roadmap towards economic
recovery and growth
T
his year’s Union Budget was among the most awaited ones, as the country
awaited a roadmap towards economic recovery and growth post the COVID-19
pandemic. Though the Central Government and the Reserve Bank of India have
been making several proactive efforts since the lockdown was introduced, the industry
expected the Government to continue these efforts in the Union Budget. We all looked
forward to steps to induce demand in the economy, which would have a multiplier
effect on several sectors.
The privatization The Central Government soothed all fears by introducing a well-balanced budget,
of seven ports where the Government struck a fine equilibrium on spending for setting up several
infrastructure projects in the country and at the same time taking steps to ensure the
worth Rs 2,000 health and well-being of the people of India.
crore through The Finance Minister spoke of raising additional resources for infrastructure projects by
announcing National Monetization Pipeline and Development Finance Institution to
the PPP model fund these long-term projects. The capital expenditure has been significantly increased
was intended to to Rs 5.54 lakh crores with a higher allocation for infrastructure projects in the Union
Budget 2021-22. Simultaneously, the Government also took steps to set up a robust
introduce further health infrastructure in the country by upping the budget on healthcare spending by 137
transparency and per cent to around Rs 2.23 lakh crores. The Central Government also made a provision
of Rs 35,000 crores for procuring the COVID vaccine.
create additional The privatization of seven ports worth Rs 2,000 crores through the PPP model was
job opportunities intended to introduce further transparency and create additional job opportunities by
making the decision-making process autonomous.
by making Several more announcements in the budget would have a multiplier effect on the
the decision- economy. Opening up the insurance sector further by increasing the foreign direct
investment limit in the insurance sector from 49 per cent to 74 per cent would help
making process attract more investments.
autonomous. Secondly, the announcement to set up seven textile parks over the next three years
under the Mega Investment Textiles Parks (MITRA) scheme would significantly boost
the domestic textile industry. India’s textile sector is also expected to double to $300
billion through such initiatives over the next five years. In terms of size, India is the
second-largest textile manufacturer globally after China. With budgetary impetus and
initiatives such as Make in India, the country aims to become a global manufacturing
hub of textile goods.
We believe that the budgetary measures will lead the Indian economy into a new
trajectory of growth and will ensure that the country is on track to realise its vision of
becoming a US$5 trillion economy..
Deepak Sood,
Secretary General, ASSOCHAM
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 5
Budget for New India
The budget has received an overall thumbs-up and is definitely a growth-
oriented and in many ways socially inclusive. There is clarity of thought
and commitment to consistency displayed by the budget, which has
boosted investors’ confidence and is reflected in the stock markets.
Mr Rahul Garg, Chairman, National Council on Direct Taxes, ASSOCHAM is briefing about the session in Inaugural session.
O
ur focus has been to provide consistency, and efficiency that a any mismatches and it should not
maximum ease and taxpayer is entitled to. When we be taken as a case of compliance
transparency to taxpayers, say we want to make the structure burden.”
and we continue to embark on that as much transparent as possible we
journey from faceless tax assessments really mean it. We want to provide Hailing the budget presented by the
and appeals to new provision of as much ease and transparency that government the CBDT chairman said
faceless hearings at the tribunal, said an honest taxpayer is entitled to. I this gives a clear roadmap for the
Shri PC Mody, Chairman, Central must also add here that the persons future. “It’s really a landmark budget
Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) while trying to take advantage of the in more ways than one.”
talking about the thought process system will also be taken care of. Pre-
that went in drafting Budget 2021 filling the returns is for the benefit of Mr. Vineet Agarwal, President,
at the ASSOCHAM’s Post-Budget the taxpayers so that they are able to ASSOCHAM, said, “On my behalf
Conference to analyse tax related discharge their tax obligations in a and on behalf of ASSOCHAM, I
proposals. fair and proper manner. Provisions would like to congratulate the Finance
of TDS and TCS are aimed at this. ministry and other ministries that
“This will add to the transparency, This way we want to minimize had worked hard to deliver a truly
6 Vol. No. 48 • Issue No. 3 • March 2021
Industry-Media Interaction on Union Budget 2020-21
unique budget this time. The budget Mr Rahul Garg, Chairman, National Budget. In its interactive discussion
has received an overall thumbs-up Council on Direct Taxes, ASSOCHAM with Mr. Kamlesh Varshney, Joint
and is definitely a growth-oriented welcomes the finance bill proposal Secretary, TPL – 1, CBDT rationale of
and in many ways a socially inclusive which has no additional taxes, various path redeeming budgetary
one. There is clarity of thought and surcharge or cess. It also welcomes tax provisions got clarified including
commitment to consistency displayed the new dispute resolution scheme amendments related to TDS/ TCS
by the budget which has boosted and hope that it would be extended on purchase of Goods, Equalization
investors’ confidence and is reflected to all taxpayers sooner. Proposals levy, Faceless ITAT etc. There was
in the stock markets. The emphasis for reduced time limit for completion threadbare discussion in the panel
laid on building key infrastructure is a and reopening of assessments are discussion on other Budgetary
timely move and will have a positive also welcome. Given that many proposals also with panellists
impact on generating employment, taxpayers have chosen VSV to settle including Mr. Vineet Agrawal, Co-
increase income, creation of demand, their dispute, but many more have Chairman, National Council on Direct
reduced cost of logistics, and further not yet been able to take decision due Taxes, ASSOCHAM and Mr. Amit
contribute to ease of doing business to pandemic. It is suggested that the Rana, Partner, PwC.
and raised the standard of life. scheme may be extended till 31 March
ASSOCHAM has been asking for a 2022 with a cut-off date of September ASSOCHAM’s Post-Budget
DFI for the past couple of years and 2021. Conference was held to bring
we are happy that the government greater awareness about the new tax
has announced the Development Mr. Rakesh Nangia, Co-chairman, proposals and policy initiatives in
Financial institution, this will greatly National Council on International the Union Budget 2021-2022 and to
strengthen development financing in Taxes, ASSOCHAM complimented provide clarifications across the table
the country.” the Government in its path breaking to all stakeholders.
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 7
(L-R) Mr Demeke Mekonnen, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia; ASSOCHAM Secretary
General, Mr Deepak Sood; Mr V. Muraleedharan, MoS for External Affairs, Govt of India and ASSOCHAM President, Mr Vineet Agarwal seen on the occasion
of India-Ethiopia Business Forum.
Significant scope to diversify
India-Ethiopia trade
Ethiopia, the second-most populous African The prestigious event organised
in the honour of Mr Demeke
country, has been posting a double-digit
Mekonnen, Deputy Prime Minister
growth rate for over 15 years together (PM) and Minister of Foreign Affairs
with its highly-educated, skilled populace of the Federal Democratic Republic
and sound economic policies makes it an of Ethiopia was the first physical
attractive investment destination for Indian high-level interaction organised by
ASSOCHAM after the outbreak of
entrepreneurs. COVID-19 pandemic.
E
ven as trade and economic "I invite Indian entrepreneurs to He said that economy of Ethiopia,
relations between India and consider establishing high-quality the second-most populous African
Ethiopia are booming, there educational institutions, of both country which has been posting a
is still huge scope to expand and technical and non-technical nature, double-digit growth rate for over
diversify trade between the two in Ethiopia," said Mr Muraleedharan 15 years together with its highly-
countries, said Mr V. Muraleedharan, addressing an India-Ethiopia educated, skilled populace and
Minister of State for External Affairs Business Forum organised by The sound economic policies makes it an
said at an ASSOCHAM event held in Associated Chambers of Commerce attractive investment destination for
New Delhi. and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM). Indian entrepreneurs.
8 Vol. No. 48 • Issue No. 3 • March 2021
(L-R) Mr Demeke Mekonnen, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia; ASSOCHAM Secretary
General, Mr Deepak Sood; Mr V. Muraleedharan, Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of India and ASSOCHAM President, Mr Vineet Agarwal
seen on the occasion of India-Ethiopia Business Forum organised by ASSOCHAM in New Delhi.
Highlighting the expansion The Minister also expressed companies in Ethiopia with a
in economic collaboration appreciation for Ethiopian licensed investment of over $5
between India and Ethiopia, the government's effort in creating a
Minister highlighted that despite congenial environment for foreign
Covid-19 global pandemic, Indian investments and in particular for
businessmen continued to explore facilitating Indian companies to Despite Covid-19 global
investment opportunities in the invest in Ethiopia and carry on their pandemic, Indian
African country. "During the last business. businessmen continued
one year, we have had 35 new
to explore investment
Indian investments in Ethiopia." Today there are over 607 Indian
opportunities in
the African country.
“During the last one
year, we have had 35
new Indian investments
in Ethiopia”.
billion (bn) employing about 75,000
Ethiopian nationals. About 61 per
Mr V. Muraleedharan, Minister of State Mr Demeke Mekonnen, Deputy Prime Minister
for External Affairs, Government of India and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal cent of Indian investments are in
addressing the delegates during India- Democratic Republic of Ethiopia addressing the manufacturing sector followed by
Ethiopia Business Forum organised by delegates during India-Ethiopia Business Forum
ASSOCHAM in New Delhi. organised by ASSOCHAM in New Delhi. agriculture (14 per cent).
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 9
digital economy, tourism, science
and technology, human resource
development and increase in
productivity in agriculture and
industry," said Mr Mekonnen.
He also assured facilitation from his
government for prospective Indian
investments.
In his welcome remarks, Mr Vineet
Agarwal, president, ASSOCHAM
said that India is looking to work
more closely with the context of the
recently ratified African Continental
Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
ASSOCHAM President, Mr Vineet Agarwal addressing the India-Ethiopia Business Forum. "The FTA should enhance trade
with Ethiopia and other African
He also said that Ethiopia is one amounting to $705 million extended Countries."
of the largest recipients of India's to Ethiopia."
The ASSOCHAM chief added, "We
The Minister added that state visit request the respective authorities
of Ethiopian deputy PM will deepen and key stakeholders on both sides
ties thereby leading to a robust to expedite resolution of non-tariff
Today there are over and long-lasting relationship and barriers to provide a greater ease
607 Indian companies India would continue to partner in of doing business for industry
country's growth story. members. This will help boost the
in Ethiopia with a trade potential between India and
licensed investment Sharing his perspective, Ethiopian Ethiopia in the short term, even as
of over $5 billion (bn) deputy PM, Mr Mekonnen said newer areas for a more broad-based
employing about that while bilateral trade ties commercial engagement emerge in
between India and Ethiopia have the post-COVID world order."
75,000 Ethiopian
reached $1.23 bn and over the years,
nationals. About 61 although Indian exportable goods Sharing his perspective,
per cent of Indian to Ethiopia has shown exponential ASSOCHAM's secretary general, Mr
investments are in growth, he rued that Ethiopia's Deepak Sood said, "Ethiopia offers
export to India remains as low as vast and diverse untapped scope for
manufacturing sector
before. a range of business opportunities.
followed by agriculture. This untapped potential is a call to
Inviting Indian businesses, the India to forge stronger trade ties with
Ethiopian deputy PM informed Ethiopia, and within the region."
about a ten-year economic
development plan unveiled by Amid others who addressed the
concessional loans or lines of his government with a vision of ASSOCHAM event included: Dr
credit in Africa. "I am glad that our 'Ethiopia: An African Beacon of Tizita Mulugeta, Ambassador,
development partnership covers Prosperity.' Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary
sectors such as rural electrification of Ethiopia to India and Mr Rajeev
and the sugar industry and consists "We have also defined new Sharma, Acting Convener, India
of a total of six lines of credit frontiers of growth including Business Forum (IBF).
10 Vol. No. 48 • Issue No. 3 • March 2021T
here are almost 8 lakh
Indian students studying in
various foreign universities
and spend on an average Rs 2 lakh
crores every year in fees and other
expenses. The government is taking
steps to ensure that quality education
and similar facilities are provided in
India itself so that these students are
retained here, stated Dr. Ramesh
Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’, Honourable
Union Minister of Education,
Government of India. He was
speaking at the 14th NATIONAL Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’, Hon’ble Union Minister of Education, GoI. addressing the 14th
ASSOCHAM Education Summit 2021 on 18th – 20th February 2021
EDUCATION SUMMIT 2021
- NEP 2020 – ‘Transforming
Educational Landscape of the
Nation and Carving a Road Map Aiming to save 2 lakh cr.
for Implementation’ organized
by The Associated Chambers of spent by Indian students:
Pokhriyal
Commerce and Industry of India
(ASSOCHAM).
The honourable minister stated that
the education ministry is in talks with The government is taking steps to ensure that
more than 128 foreign universities quality education and similar facilities are
on ways to collaborate so that similar
facilities can be given to the students
provided in India itself so that these students
here as well. “We have already got are retained here.
more than 50000 student registrations
and there are already almost 1000 Speaking on the New Education Policy tongue or the language of their
students involved in research and (NEP) 2020, the minister explained preference. “The Education facilities in
development in India,” he said. that till class 5, students would be able India would get a huge boost with the
to get an education in their mother introduction of the NEP. This would
According to Dr Pokhriyal, the
government of India ensured that
even during the lock-down due to
the Corona-virus pandemic, none
of the students lost an academic
year due to the non-accessibility of
academic facilities.
“Almost 33 crore students across
the country were able to get online
education. Even in remote villages,
the education institutes ensured that
students could get access to their
studies through radios and rooftop
Dr. Arun Kumar Sahoo, Hon’ble Minister of Higher Education, Govt. of Odisha is delivering the speech
loudspeakers,” he said. at the 14th ASSOCHAM Education Summit 2021 on 18th – 20th February 2021.
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 11Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, Member of Parliament along with Shri Yuvraj Malik, Director, National Book Trust, Dr. Prashant Bhalla, Chairman, ASSOCHAM
National Council on Education, Kunwar Shekhar Vijendra, Co-Chairman, ASSOCHAM National Council on Education, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro Chancellor,
Chitkara University along with ASSOCHAM officials.
also help in the promotion of Local “Education is the most important their studies,” he informed.
languages for education,” he said. pillar for any economy. Once
the industries collaborate with Professor Ashutosh Sharma,
Dr Pokhriyal also asked the Industry the educational institutes, the Secretary, Department of Science
representative to collaborate with curriculum can be designed in a way & Technology (DST) explains
educational institutes to help design where the students can also gain that the education system
the curriculum. industrial experience as a part of should be designed as a means
Prof. V. S. Chauhan, Chairman, NAAC along with Dr. Prashant Bhalla, Chairman, ASSOCHAM National Council on Education, Kunwar Shekhar Vijendra,
Co-Chairman, ASSOCHAM National Council on Education, Shri Satnam Singh Sandhu, Chancellor, Chandigarh University, Prof. Atul Khosla, Founder & Vice
Chancellor, Shoolini University, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro Chancellor, Chitkara University, Dr. G. D. Sharma, Former Secretary, UGC, Prof. Manoj K. Arora,
Vice Chancellor, BML Munjal University and Prof. Sunil Rai, Vice Chancellor, UPES.
12 Vol. No. 48 • Issue No. 3 • March 2021Dr Prashant Bhalla, Chairman,
ASSOCHAM National Council on
Education and President, Manav
Rachna Educational Institutions
explained that teaching students
in the mother tongue will be very
effective. “There are various studies
that suggest that most students
understand complex subjects when
explained in their mother tongue.
Mr. Yuvraj Malik, Director, National Book Trust, Dr. Chowna Mein, Deputy Chief Minister, This would help many students,” he
India addressing the session. Government of Arunachal Pradesh addressing
the session.
said.
of achieving creativity and skill
development. right from science and technology to Prof Anil D. Sahasrabudhe,
humanities,” he added. Chairman, All India Council for
“NEP 2020 aims to achieve that. Technical Education (AICTE) stated
The education curriculum should Kunwar Shekhar Vijendra, Co- that the New Education Policy (NEP)
be aligned with the needs of the Chairman, National Council on 2020 would help the country achieve
industry. Its objective should be Education & Chancellor, Shobhit excellence in its education system.
to help in problem-solving of the University explained that the “A vocational course as a part of
society,” he said. National Education Policy will
connect the past with the future with
According to Prof. Sharma, setting a focus on excelling in the education The Education facilities
up of the National Research sector.
Foundation would also help in
in India would get a
building the research capacity of “The National Research Fund and huge boost with the
the universities and colleges in the the National Technical Research introduction of the NEP.
country. “The government has also Organization will bring big changes This would also help in
earmarked a huge budget of Rs 50000 in the research and development
crores to spend over the period of 5 ecosystem of the country and will be
the promotion of local
years for the creation of the National more inclusive. National Education languages for education.
Research Foundation (NRF). This Policy will play a crucial role in
in turn will help in funding the bridging the gap between research
research in the range of disciplines and education,” he said. the curriculum would also help the
students develop an entrepreneurial
mindset which would help them in
the future,” He explained.
Mr Vineet Agrawal, president,
ASSOCHAM explains that the
National Education Policy 2020 will
be a game-changer for the education
system in the country.
ASSOCHAM National Council on Education organized the webinar on “Researching Quality Assurance “The industry will collaborate with
in Higher Education – Accreditation and Ranking of Universities” on 19th February 21. The Guest the government towards enriching the
of Honour is Dr. Gopalkrishna Joshi, Executive Director and Member Secretary, Karnataka State
Higher Education Council, Prof. Govind Prasad Sharma, Chairman, National Book Trust, Mr. Sanjay education system of the country and
Padode, Chairman, CDE, IFIM, Dr. Raj Singh, Vice Chancellor, Jain (Deemed to be University), Dr.
Victor Gambhir, President, JECRC University, Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, CEO, QS I-GAUGE, Dr. Jitendra Das,
making the students more attuned to
Director, FORE School of Management. the needs of the industry”, he said.
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 13Reorient Businesses
to Succeed: Ajit doval
Aatmanirbhar Bharat is a new window of opportunity
for India. We have to become global leaders in the
future. Let us all join hands and build a new and strong
India.
14 Vol. No. 48 • Issue No. 3 • March 2021B
usinesses and trade in India ensure our survival. “Those who
will have to learn to change have funds and are better off should
faster than the change itself expand their outlook so that it
if they want to succeed, stated, touches the lives of everyone. This is
Shri Ajit Doval, National Security what Swami Vivekanand also said,
Advisor to the Prime Minister of that if you want to find God, you
India at the Swami Vivekanand need to serve man,” He pointed out.
Memorial Lecture 2021 organized
by The Associated Chambers of
Commerce and Industry of India Many people are moving back to the villages.
(ASSOCHAM). Can we ensure that these villages are developed
into new hubs for economic activity? Can they
He explained that it is important
be equipped with better connectivity and
that to succeed Indian companies
will have to remain a step ahead infrastructure.
of others. “By 2030, 600 million
people will be living and operating He mentioned that Swami
from their homes. The new urban Vivekanand took a very holistic
complexes will have to ensure view of life. “For him a person
that the industrial economy from playing football would be nearer
residential centres can adjust. Also, to heaven than one chanting the
many people are moving back to the Bhagavad Gita. He understood that
villages. Can we ensure that these every Individual and nation needed
villages are developed into new hubs to take care of its basic material
for economic activity? Can they be requirement to exist and progress.
equipped with better connectivity No spiritual alleviation or growth
and infrastructure,” he said. was possible when the basic survival
was threatened,” he said.
Shri Doval stated that the most
enduring message of COVID-19 is Shri Doval explained that India has
that only the well-being of all will besides geographical proximity to
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 15Swami Vivekanand took
a very holistic view of
life. For him a person
playing football would
be nearer to heaven
than one chanting the
Bhagavad Gita. He
understood that every
Individual and nation
needed to take care long run. “‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’
of its basic material is a new window of opportunity for
India. We have to become global
requirement to exist and leaders in the future. Let us all join
progress. hands and build a new and strong
India,” he said.
Mr. Vineet Agrawal, President,
many markets, it has many natural ASSOCHAM stated that Swami
advantages. “As a geostrategic Vivekananda was more than just
environment, India’s growing a spiritual mind; he was a prolific
multi-sectoral cooperation with thinker, great orator, and passionate
the Middle East will provide patriot.
several opportunities in the fields
of infrastructure, tourism, and He explained that multitudes “His teachings have been an
establishing a third country joint of reforms are brought by the inspiration to many, and his words
venture,” he said. government that will benefit in the have become a self-improvement
16 Vol. No. 48 • Issue No. 3 • March 2021goals, especially for the youth of the technology, man has attained great and the World and to keep the
country. For this very reason, his prosperity and power, and modern legacy of a great human being and an
birthday, January 12, is celebrated communication and travel methods inspiring individual, ASSOCHAM
as the National Youth Day in India. have converted human society into a has started this Annual Swami
We are all motivated by his inspiring ‘global village’,” He said.
speech at the World Parliament of
Religions in Chicago, 1893, which Mr Deepak Sood, Secretary-General,
changed how the world viewed ASSOCHAM stated that society is Incidentally, today is
religion,” He said. guided by Swamiji’s focus on the also Parakram Diwas,
spirit of oneness, the importance of a the birth anniversary of
Mr. Agrawal informed at a time good education system and human
when the world is reeling under development in building a nation,
Netaji Subhash Chandra
the impact of the pandemic, Swami and how service to humanity can Bose. He has also
Vivekananda’s teachings can help individuals become the best inspired us, much like
help bring order to the chaos and versions of themselves. Swami Vivekanand, with
encourage us to look to the Indian
heritage as a binding factor for global “Incidentally, today is also Parakram
his indomitable spirit
collaborations. Diwas, the birth anniversary of and selfless service to
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. the nation.
Mr. Sumant Sinha, Senior Vice He has also inspired us, much
President, ASSOCHAM stated that like Swami Vivekanand, with his
Swami Vivekananda’s concept of indomitable spirit and selfless
‘potential the divinity of the soul’ service to the nation. The values of Vivekananda Memorial Lecture
gives a new, ennobling concept of these leaders continue to inspire series from this year.
man. people of our country to act with
fortitude in the face of adversity,” Mr “In keeping with Swami
“The present age is the age of Sood stated. Vivekananda’s teachings, this lecture
humanism which holds that series will cover the lessons learned
man should be the chief concern According to the Secretary- from his life and how they can guide
and centre of all activities and General, to commemorate Swami society in these uncertain times,” he
thinking. Through science and Vivekananda’s beneficence to India said.
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 17How not to get depressed
by depression
Depression is one of the most common Rajesh Kesari, Founder and Director,
mental disorders. It occurs across all the age Total Care Control who served
groups and is twice as common in females as a moderator for the panel. The
campaign running under a CSR
as compared to males. It is treatable and initiative supported by SAVLON,
the treatment should be started as early as aims at promoting healthy living
possible. with a keen focus on wellness and
preventive health through healthy
habits, diet, exercise, and holistic
A
SSOCHAM organized The online event was graced by a health.
another edition of the team of eminent mental health experts
webinar series on ‘Illness to who shared their valuable inputs on Sharing his perspective, Prof Dalal
Wellness’ campaign, themed around Depression management, which said, “Depression is one of the most
“Depression Management and included - Prof. P K Dalal, President- common mental disorders. It occurs
Treatment” . Indian Psychiatric Society and Former across all the age groups and is twice
Professor & Head Department of as common in females as compared to
The ASSOCHAM webinar was Psychiatry KGMU, Lucknow; Dr males. It is treatable and the treatment
organized with an objective to cascade Ishita Mukerji, Program Director and should be started as early as possible.
mass awareness and disseminate Senior Psychologist, Kaleidoscope; Dr It can also occur quite commonly with
knowledge & wisdom to combat Akshay Kumar, Associate Consultant, the other chronic physical and mental
depression and promote healthier and Mental Health and Behavioural disorders as well. If left untreated
happier life during current scenario. Science, Artemis Hospital, and Dr it can be severe in intensity and can
18 Vol. No. 48 • Issue No. 3 • March 2021lead to even suicidal tendency, a death among 15-29-year-olds. People we must be careful not to interchange
psychiatric emergency.” with severe mental health conditions the meaning of sadness, stress,
die prematurely as much as two anxiety, and depression. Having
He said around 10 to 15 per cent decades early due to preventable said that, chronic disorder can lead to
people suffering with depression can physical conditions. These facts are depression, if not monitored within
commit suicide and around 20 per a waking reality for all countries to time.”
cent more can attempt for suicide. re-think their approaches to mental
The person should be immediately health and to treat it with the urgency The critical takeaways from the
hospitalised and treated. There are that it deserves. insightful session, included ways to
now good medicines and other handle a person with suicidal ideation
therapies available for the treatment The expert panel in coherence with utmost vigilance on behalf of
of depression. expressed that Depression is bio- family members & social support,
psycho-social in nature, because
Prof Dalal added, “Medicines to treat of which a strong link between
depression are neither habit forming developing depressive symptoms &
nor sedating in nature. The treatment chronic illnesses can be established. Medicines to treat
can be easily tapered off after the Amidst the many important inputs depression are neither
person remains fully asymptomatic during the webinar, it was also habit forming nor
for a considerable period.” suggested that physicians who
diagnose patients with chronic
sedating in nature. The
The key to get to the core of the issue is disorders must map the psychological treatment can be easily
by addressing and communicating in impact with equal importance as tapered off after the
a safe space. “The continuing stigma co-morbidity can magnify due to person remains fully
associated with mental illness was interlinking of diseases.
the reason why we decided to come
asymptomatic for a
out and talk openly about it”, said Dr Between adjusting to Work from considerable period.
Mukerji. home, children’s online school-
college education, lack of contact with
“For someone living with depression, other family members, friends and
acknowledging their emotions and colleagues and accepting the changes tips to parents and children on time
talking to a person they trust is often of lifestyle while mitigating the fear management and active listening
the first step towards treatment and of contracting the virus, the mental to prevent feelings of isolation
recovery,” he said. health of people took a beating. Stress and detachment, stages of post-
became a common and consistent partum depression, looking out for
“A better understanding of depression emotion. symptoms of depression in someone
and how it can be treated, while suffering from prolonged sadness and
essential, is just the beginning. What In severe cases, it even led to clinical normalizing seeking professional help
needs to follow is sustained scale-up depression. Reflecting on how stress to resolve and steer ahead.
of mental health services accessible and depression are often confused
to everyone, even the most remote with each other, Dr Kumar, one of the The session was moderated by Dr
populations in the world,” said experts among the pantheons from Rajesh Kesari, founder and director,
Dr Mukerji, Senior Psychologist- the field of mental health said, “Stress Total Care Control who also shed
Kaleidoscope, as she concluded her and anxiety are very different from some light on the gravitas of the
address. Depression. Stress is not a disorder, topic and highlighted the need of
but more of a reaction triggered by acknowledging the existence of the
According to World Health an external stimulus which may be problem of depression, which is still
Organization (WHO), depression is uncomfortable. It is often used within considered a taboo, as he successfully
one of the leading causes of disability. the professional context to indicate summarized the discussion with
Suicide is the second leading cause of an uncomfortable situation, wherein expert inputs of the esteemed panel.
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 19Care for your heart
during winters
The supply of oxygen-rich blood to heart healthy Heart especially in winter
muscles gets reduced during winter season season.
forcing the heart to work harder, as such any
It was also discussed that influenza
demand-supply mismatch in terms of blood vaccine for all individuals above
flow to heart muscles due to cold temperatures 65 years and in addition to that
can put health at risk for those having heart Pneumococcal vaccine is key to stay
conditions. fit for everyone with heart diseases.
“The supply of oxygen-rich blood to
A
SSOCHAM concluded the edition of ASSOCHAM webinar heart muscles gets reduced during
16th edition of the ‘Illness series on Illness to Wellness. winter season forcing the heart to
to Wellness’ series themed work harder, as such any demand-
‘Heart Care During Winters In Supported by the hygiene brand supply mismatch in terms of blood
COVID–19 Era’. SAVLON, the program which flow to heart muscles due to cold
promotes healthy living with a temperatures can put health at risk
People with cardiovascular problems quality life focusing on wellness for those having heart conditions,”
need to be extra cautious when and preventive health through said experts during the panel
temperatures start to fall, as risk of healthy lifestyle habits, balanced discussion at an ASSOCHAM
a heart attack begins to climb during diet, regular exercises, and holistic webinar on ‘Heart Care during
cold weather, said cardiology experts health saw the speakers engage winters in Covid-19 era,’ held
sharing their experiences during 16th on the preventive measures for yesterday .
20 Vol. No. 48 • Issue No. 3 • March 2021Staying extra cautious and taking heart disease is preventable by
certain precautions like limiting following certain healthy practices.
the in-take of high-calorie food, First, it is important to give up high-
indulging in sports activities and saturated diet because if we eat and
others can help minimise risk of drink in moderation then it won’t
heart attack or a cardiac arrest, said become a health risk. He also said
experts sharing their views during that in today’s fast paced-lives, stress
the webinar. has become quite common among
people thus it is important to manage
Eminent cardiologist, Padma it by indulging in recreational
Bhushan Dr K.K. Talwar, chairman activities like yoga and others.
PSRI Heart Institute in his address
said that elderly people are He added that there is a popular
at a higher risk during winter myth that alcohol consumption can
season as cold weather can affect prevent heart attack, it is nothing but
heart, especially those having overblown. He said, in India people
cardiovascular disease. “Being indulge in binge drinking and eat
outdoors in cold weather for long high-calorie food which is very
time should be avoided, cardiac harmful for heart health.
patients should move out only when scientists, frontline workers for
sun is shining and cover themselves Dr Singh further said that usage of fearlessly dedicating themselves to
up properly.” face-masks should be continued the fight against this deadly virus.
even after the covid-19 has subsided
Dr Talwar also said that a regular as it would help prevent spread
exercise routine can be a blessing not of infections like pneumonia and
just for heart patients but for normal viral diseases. Even in hospitals, he Staying extra cautious
people as well and that it is always said infections have significantly and taking certain
better to play any sport rather than decreased due to measures
merely walk. like wearing masks and hand
precautions like limiting
sanitization. the in-take of high-
Talking about the food habits, he calorie food, indulging
stated that oily foods need to be ASSOCHAM National Council on in sports activities and
avoided and those who consume Corporate Social Responsibility
liquor should take small amounts to (CSR), chairman, Mr Anil Rajput
others can help minimise
just relax themselves, besides sweets, said that the year 2020 saw risk of heart attack or a
milk products and bakery items medical fraternity rising to the cardiac arrest.
should be completely avoided by challenge thereby showcasing their
those suffering from heart diseases. unwavering spirit despite complex
nature of Covid-19 pandemic.
On a cautionary note he said that
it is extremely important to keep He added, that fighting the Covid-19 The session was moderated by Dr
blood pressure under control in all virus becomes more challenging Rajesh Kesari, founder and director,
circumstances and for diabetics and for those with underlying heart Total Care Control who also shared
kidney disease patients it should be conditions, more so during the his experiences and highlighted
less than 130/80. winter season when heart must work that heart disease and high blood
extra hard to maintain a healthy pressure can put one at greater risk,
Sharing his views, Padma Shri Dr body temperature. thus following a healthy regime can
Balbir Singh, chairman, Cardiac help protect one’s heart during the
Sciences, Max Healthcare said that Mr Rajput also lauded the doctors, COVID-19 pandemic.
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 21Neuro Health in
time of Covid
Neurological manifestations in COVID-19 are undeniable and represent an
amalgamation of a hyperfunctioning immunological system, procoagulant
state and direct virus-induced apoptosis, a combination that may require
a multi-pronged approach for therapeutic success.
A
SSOCHAM successfully SAVLON, the program which Hardinge Medical College; Dr (Col)
organised another edition promotes healthy living with a P.K. Sethi, Emeritus Consultant and
of the ‘Illness to Wellness’ focus on wellness and preventive Advisor, Neurology, Sir Ganga Ram
series themed ‘Wellness of brain health through healthy habits, diet, Hospital; Dr Sumit Singh, Chief,
and nervous system. exercise, and holistic health saw the Neurology, Artemis Hospitals;
veteran speakers discuss at length Mr Anil Rajput, Chairperson,
The online event saw participation what affects nervous system related ASSOCHAM CSR Council and
of an expert panel of neurologists problems and how the same can be Dr Rajesh Kesari, Founder and
hold an informative dialogue improved. Director, Total Care Control who
on challenges faced by patients also moderated the ASSOCHAM
suffering from a weak nervous Renowned experts who shared their webinar.
system. valuable comments included - Prof
(Dr) Rajinder K. Dhamija, Head The panellists explained the
Supported by top hygiene brand of Neurology Department, Lady importance of a healthy brain
22 Vol. No. 48 • Issue No. 3 • March 2021and central nervous system and
minimise chances of neurological
disorders.
Sharing his views, Dr Dhamija
said, “As the pandemic rages,
there is an urgent need to
establish neuropathological links
in COVID-19 via autopsies and
pathology studies. Knowledge
of virus structure and virus-host
interaction mechanisms will aid
in providing a framework for
therapeutic interventions.”
He added, “Neurological
manifestations in COVID-19 countries. This burden is estimated Mr Rajput in his address impressed
are undeniable and represent to increase further by 23 per cent upon the need for leading an active
an amalgamation of a in India by 2025, which should physical life which may include
hyperfunctioning immunological ring alarm bells to the medical
system, procoagulant state and community.”
direct virus-induced apoptosis,
a combination that may require Addressing the delegates, Dr Sethi
a multi-pronged approach for said, “Healthy brain and mind
There has been a 44
therapeutic success.” leads to good physical health and per cent increase in
happiness. The motto of life should mental, neurological,
He also said, “Neurological be to achieve happiness.” and substance use
disorders have become major public
health concerns globally including Dr Sumit sharing his views said,
disorder burden from
India, with increasing prevalence “Migraine, tension type headache, 1990 to 2013 in India,
due to escalating longevity and trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias by far exceeding many
perpetually changing lifestyles.” are the common primary headache. other Asian countries.
Headache may be secondary
Stating that brain diseases, to trauma, substance abuse/
This burden is estimated
along with mental disorders withdrawal, infection, vascular to increase further by
and substance abuse, cause disorder etc. If the headache is new 23 per cent in India by
more morbidity and mortality in onset, precipitated by exertion, 2025.
than cancers and heart diseases cough, worse than or different in
combined, he said that key to nature than previous headache,
improvement is creating awareness, associated with fever, fits, or
leading to timely diagnosis and appear in elderly for the first time;
treatment. they should be taken seriously, walking, jogging, cycling, resistance
and immediate medical attention training along with mental well-
Sharing certain figures, he said, should be sought. Radiological being through yoga, meditation
“There has been a 44 per cent investigations like MRI usually helps and counselling that can make
increase in mental, neurological, to rule out any underlying structural everybody better equipped to take
and substance use disorder burden disease. Majority of the headaches on many of the health challenges
from 1990 to 2013 in India, by can be treated with appropriate and be it neurological disorders or
far exceeding many other Asian timely medication.” Covid-19.
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 23Manage Obesity by
Modifying Lifestyle
Skip fad diets and focus on nutrition instead. promotes healthy living with a
Following this method, calorific foods will get focus on wellness and preventive
crowded out naturally and both health gain health through healthy habits, diet,
exercise, and holistic health saw the
and the weight loss will happen naturally. veteran speakers discuss at length
what affects nervous system related
A
SSOCHAM successfully problems and how the same can be
organised a webinar as part improved.
of its ‘Illness to Wellness’
series themed ‘Obesity Management Renowned experts who shared
by Lifestyle Modifications’. their valuable comments included -
Professor Anoop Misra, Chairman,
The webinar saw participation Fortis C-DOC Centre for Diabetes,
of renowned nutritionists, Obesity, Metabolic Diseases,
diabetologists and physicians and Endocrinology; Ms Kavita
hold an informative dialogue Devgan, Nutritionist & Weight
on challenges faced by patients Management Consultant; Mr Anil
suffering from a weak nervous Rajput, Chairperson, ASSOCHAM
system. CSR Council and Dr Rajesh Kesari,
Founder and Director, Total Care
Supported by top hygiene brand Control who also moderated the
SAVLON, the program which ASSOCHAM webinar.
24 Vol. No. 48 • Issue No. 3 • March 2021The panellists explained the
importance of nutritious food and
balanced diet for a healthy body and
to keep the lifestyle diseases at bay.
Sharing her views, Ms Devgan said,
“Skip fad diets and focus on nutrition
instead. This way wrong, calorific
foods will get crowded out naturally
and both health gain and the weight
loss will happen naturally.”
She said, “The best way to get fit is
to identify the wrong habits (that
lead to weight gain) and work on
modifying those. This is the only critical problems that continue to He added, “Lifestyle modifications
way for sustainable weight loss that plague human race. It can impact like regular exercises which can
sticks.” multiple organs and cause death include walking, cycling, jogging,
for some suddenly while for others yoga and weight training along with
Ms Devgan added, “Weight loss is a
journey that must be traversed with
patience over time. Just like you
gained weight over time, the loss will
also happen in good time. So keep
patience, but do it right.” Weight loss is a journey
that must be traversed
Sharing his views on rising obesity in with patience over time.
India, Prof. Anoop Misra explained,
Just like you gained
“While treatment of obesity starts at
a lower weight in Indians, it should
weight over time, the
be aggressively pursued.” loss will also happen
in good time. So keep
Prof Misra said that muscle of patience, but do it right.
Indians is weaker than those of the
whites, blacks and thus there are
more instances of diabetes among
people here in India as weakness of
muscles alone means high diabetes
risk. a low fat diet that includes a balance
between proteins and minerals can
He added that obesity and diabetes really prevent a lot of complications
cause fatty liver which in-turn of obesity.”
Converts to Cirrhosis and Cancer, it can make life a challenge to
so it is important for people to adopt lead. According to reports 34 per Dr Kesari shared his views on
good lifestyle choices and maintain cent of the Indian population is the need to adopt preventive
daily regime of physical activity. insufficiently active. Besides, as the measures for diabetes and related
youngest nation in the world, we non-communicable diseases such
In his address, Mr Rajput pointed have the second highest number of as hypertension, obesity, high
out that obesity is one of the obese children in the world. cholesterol, and cardiac ailments.
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 25Coronavirus Vaccination:
Myths and Facts
Supported by top hygiene brand
Immunity takes time to become effective to SAVLON, the program which
stop virus spread and multiplication. However, promotes healthy living with a focus
immune system has memory, which will kick on wellness and preventive health
through healthy habits, diet, exercise,
in when the virus infects again – now the and holistic health saw the veteran
response time is very short. speakers discuss at length about the
efficacy and safety of Coronavirus
medicine and vaccination.
A
SSOCHAM successfully
organized a webinar as part Renowned experts who shared
of its ‘Illness to Wellness’ their valuable comments included
series themed “Myths and Facts of – Prof. (Dr.) T. Jacob John, Virologist
Coronavirus Vaccination”. and Pediatrics, Former Professor
at Christian Medical College,
The webinar saw participation Vellore; Dr. G. C. Khilnani, Ex
of renowned Virologists, Head & Professor of Department
Pediatricians, Neurologists, of Pulmonary Medicine & Sleep
Pulmonologists, and diabetologists Disorders, AIIMS New Delhi,
hold an enlightening, educative Chairman, PSRI Institute of
and informative dialogues on Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep
myths and realities of Coronavirus medicine; Prof. Rajinder K Dhamija,
vaccination. Head of Neurology Department,
26 Vol. No. 48 • Issue No. 3 • March 2021Lady Harding Medical College and
SSK Hospital, New Delhi; Mr. Anil
Rajput, Chairperson, ASSOCHAM
CSR Council and Dr. Rajesh Kesari,
Founder and Director, Total Care
Control who also moderated the
ASSOCHAM webinar.
Prof. (Dr.) John opined that “Our
immune system has the capacity
to detect any virus, even the never-
seen-before COVID-19 and mount
a response – antibodies and T-cell
immunity. Immunity takes time
to become effective to stop virus
spread and multiplication. However,
immune system has memory, which
will kick in when the virus infects immunity and domestic/farmed/
again – now the response time is wild animals get infected and
very short”. Vaccines mimic this become a new reservoir. India can Vaccines mimic this
sequence, but without causing lead the way; WHO can create global sequence, but without
disease. Immune system selects solidarity for this goal
causing disease.
key components of the virus for
effective response, and scientists Sharing his views, Dr. Khilnani Immune system selects
create them in the lab and use as said, “India has had more than one key components of
“antigens” – the spike proteins are crore cases of COVID-19 and more the virus for effective
the common antigen in all COVID than one and a half lakh deaths.
response, and scientists
vaccines. Alternatively, if virus is While we have seen major decline
grown but killed chemically, the in number of cases, Western world
create them in the lab
antigens are preserved, and you have is having surge of cases. We are and use as “antigens”
a vaccine. The mutant variants from quite away from attaining Herd – the spike proteins are
UK and South Africa may not fit immunity. Vaccines have protected the common antigen in
perfectly with the antibodies made in mankind - eradication of smallpox
response to the non-mutant antigen. and polio are burning examples. The
all COVID vaccines.
Immunity will be effective, but the presently available COVID vaccines,
protection may be less; scientists namely Covaxin and Covishield
have to match these one by one. A are both well tested for safety and
few vaccines tested in the labs are efficacy. There is nothing to choose All the panelists unanimously
protective against most variants. between them. All adults more than stressed that vaccination against
18 years of age (except pregnant and COVID 19 at this trajectory of
The country-epidemics will abate but lactating mothers) should take this pandemic is very crucial. As now
the virus will remain as ‘endemic’ – vaccine. There are lots of myths and number of cases is receding in many
low frequency of infection, but rather misconceptions and concerns on social parts of the country and this is the
stable. By itself, the virus will not media regarding safety and efficacy most appropriate time that now we
disappear. The best thing we can and one should always believe should immunize most of the people
do using vaccines, is to eradicate the in authentic information. Taking as many as possible at this stage of
virus – like we did with smallpox vaccine not only would save yourself COVID-19.
and polio. We must do this before but also your family members and
new mutants escape from vaccine other people around you”. Prof. (Dr.) John also outlined the
ASSOCHAM Bulletin 27India has had more
than one crore cases
of COVID-19 and more
than one and a half
lakh deaths. While
we have seen major
decline in number of
cases, Western world is
having surge of cases.
We are quite away from
vaccination against the coronavirus. out that, the very first month of
attaining Herd immunity. This is the first kind of pandemic in this year has witnessed multiple
the history of mankind which will be vaccinations against the deadly
terminated by vaccine COVID virus. Only a few months
ago, this virus was considered as
various types of vaccines in their We need to vaccinate about 70 the potent force difficult to counter.
different stage of development and percent of the population to achieve These vaccines are the direct sequel
the difference between two existing the heard immunity and control this of very strong determination of our
vaccines in India namely, covaxin pandemic. scientists and doctors to fight back.
and covishield. He further added that owing to
He also said that if you are protected the vaccination programs all over
Prof. Dhamija while stressing upon against coronavirus either by the world, the pandemic is all set
the importance of vaccination natural immunity or immunization to become history in the coming
categorically mentioned that these you become the dead end for the months. Till date, this coronavirus
vaccines are safe and effective and virus transmission. On the other has impacted over 97 million people
have also undergone rigorous hand, if you are not protected and there have been over 2.1 million
scrutiny by the regulators in India. or immunized you become the deaths.
He also touched upon the vaccine facilitator of coronavirus. And so,
hesitancy as defined by WHO as it is important to get vaccinated not Mr. Rajput said, the effectiveness and
refusal or delay taking vaccine, only for yourself but also for your protection that the Covid-19 vaccine
in spite of being the vaccination family, friends and society at large. It provides is at another level. All over
is both affordable and accessible. is important that COVID appropriate the world people have started to
He stressed on various causes of behaviour must be continued and receive COVID shots from Pfizer,
vaccine hesitancy including the role followed for at least next 12 months Moderna, AstraZeneca, Sputnik 5
of social media, misinformation, etc. as we proceed in 2021. and few allergic shocks have been
He argued that vaccine hesitancy reported as these isolated cases have
has played a major role in different All the panelists through this been accounting for a minuscule
countries and WHO has declared ASSOCHAM webinar platform percentage as against those with
vaccine hesitancy behaviour as one appeal to public to come forward no or expected side effects. These
of the top 10 public health concern and participate in “jan andolan” or vaccines have been certified to be
across the globe. He suggested “jan bhagidari” to make this vaccine safe by WHO, The US Food and
that it is the duty of doctors, public program of Government of India to Drug Administration and the
health professionals, civil society, be successful to save the lives and to European Medicines Agency.
technocrats and organization like control the pandemic.
ASSOCHAM to come forward Mr. Rajput categorically mentioned,
and dispel all the myths about the In his address, Mr. Rajput pointed India has its own domestically
28 Vol. No. 48 • Issue No. 3 • March 2021You can also read
