India commemorates 4th anniversary of first Covid-19 lockdown in memoriam

On a warm March evening four years ago, India experienced an unprecedented nationwide lockdown to combat Covid-19. The World Health Organisation declared it a pandemic, isolating people globally. PM Narendra Modi declared the first lockdown on March 24, 2020, keeping people confined for months.

India recorded 4,50,33,332 cases and 533,535 deaths. Globally, there were 70,43,18,936 infections and 70,07,114 deaths. While some countries had minimal cases like Western Sahara and Vatican City, others like the US faced staggering numbers. The pandemic brought about significant changes in various aspects of life.

Annual events like the Hajj pilgrimage and the Ramadan street food bazaar in Mumbai were canceled. The world saw a shift in air travel, education, work, and shopping due to the restrictions. Despite economic struggles, India emerged as a leader by supplying vaccines to over 100 countries.

Amidst the tragedy, stories of humanity emerged. People supported each other, migrants were helped, and communities came together to provide for the needy. Vaccines were developed globally, bringing hope for a safer future. The pandemic officially ended in May 2023, with daily cases now minimal in a few countries.

After four years of battling the pandemic, the world now rests easy, with daily Covid-19 infections below 100 in most places. The dark era of Covid-19 seems to have passed, but the resilience and unity shown during the crisis will be remembered for years to come.