CHANGES IN ISRO
   Date :19-Jun-2020

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THE warning by veteran space scientist Mr G Madhavan Nair against making structural changes in the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is a sane advice that must be heeded to by the powers-that-be. ISRO’s unique working style under a unified command and the wonderful rapport between the Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space are lessons on successful working of a government organisation. It has not only mastered sophisticated space technologies totally indigenously but also provided space missions in a timely manner. Bringing in more industrial participation with an idea of possible restructuring for more expansion is a welcome step but it should not be at the cost of damaging the basic structure of the premier organisation. ISRO has always worked with a far-sighted approach and delivered goods on shoe-string budget because of its structured working under a qualified technocrat. Industrial participation is most welcome in the space field but making structural changes to accommodate it is ill-advised. INCREASE
 
TESTING INDIA
 
registered highest-ever spike of COVID-19 fatalities in a day but it was more because of the late addition of deaths due to the virus by some States. Yet, the situation calls for extreme vigilance and effective measures to arrest the coronavirus spread. India has managed to keep things in control largely due to the long lockdown imposed across the country. However, unlocking has added different challenges to the situation as daily movement of people is difficult to monitor or control by the authorities. The only solution to tackle the problem is increasing testing and tracking of patients -- symptomatic or asymptomatic. Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi has advised the Chief Ministers of various States to make full use of the testing capacity available. Testing remains the best tool to fight the virus but it entails a dedicated health force and infrastructure. This the biggest grey area in the worst-affected regions in Maharashtra and Delhi. A right mix of State efforts and public participation can only bring about a change.