The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. However, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid the management of the pandemic.

The global COVID-19 pandemic was caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The pandemic caused ~7.1 million confirmed deaths globally, triggered global economic recessions, disrupted supply chains and exposed the vulnerability of health systems.

However, the use of technology strengthened the surveillance, diagnosis, treatment, logistics and public communication during the pandemic.

Use of Technology in Pandemic Management in India:

• Surveillance and Contact Tracing: Digital dashboards, GIS mapping and Apps like Aarogya Setu helped identify hotspots, trace contacts, map containment zones and alert citizens about possible exposure.
• Testing and Diagnosis: RT-PCR, rapid antigen tests, genome sequencing and AI-assisted chest imaging helped detect infections, monitor variants and support faster clinical decision-making. India also used innovations like CRISPR-based FELUDA testing.
• Vaccine Development: Biotechnology, bioinformatics and faster clinical trial platforms accelerated vaccine development. India used platforms such as inactivated vaccine technology for Covaxin and viral vector technology for Covishield.
• Vaccination Management: The CoWIN platform enabled digital registration, slot booking, vaccine allocation, QR-coded certificates and real-time tracking of India’s mass vaccination drive.
• Telemedicine: Platforms such as eSanjeevani expanded remote consultations, reduced hospital crowding and helped patients in home isolation, rural areas and high-risk groups.
• Genome Surveillance: Sequencing networks such as INSACOG helped detect and monitor variants, aiding public health planning and travel advisories.
• Robotics, Drones and 3D Printing: Robots and UV devices supported sanitisation and contactless delivery in hospitals. Drones helped transport medical supplies in some areas, while 3D printing helped produce face shields, valves and other emergency equipment.
• Remote Monitoring: Pulse oximeters, wearable devices and digital reporting systems helped monitor patients under home isolation and detect deterioration early.
• Communication Technology: SMS alerts, official portals, social media and digital campaigns spread advisories on masks, vaccination and testing.
• Socio-Economic Continuity: Online education, work-from-home tools, digital payments, e-commerce and cloud platforms helped maintain learning, work and essential services during lockdowns.

Thus, technology acted as a force multiplier in pandemic management.

However, the crisis also underlined the need to bridge the digital divide, protect data privacy and build resilient public health infrastructure.