TIMELY BOOST
   Date :26-Jun-2020

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THE distressed Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector has got a timely boost of Rs 20,000 crore guarantee cover under the Centre’s ambitious Credit Guarantee Scheme for Sub-ordinate Debt. The sector holds a crucial place in the country’s economic ecosystem but was wading through troubled waters for want of capital. Though efforts were on to revive the MSMEs from becoming non-performing assets, the coronavirus pandemic has spurred the Government to change its total outlook towards the small and medium enterprises. The COVID crisis has created a wonderful opportunity to help the MSME sector come out of the red. As part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat package launched as a stimulus for the economy, MSME sector has finally got a share it badly deserved. This new scheme will play an important role in enhancing liquidity in the system while maintaining the debt-equity ratio. The guarantee cover is a much-needed fillip for the idea of MSMEs to sustain the rigours of market volatility and recover from the long lockdown on its own.
 

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TEST, TRACK, TREAT
 
AS PART of newer additional strategies to fight COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has advised expansion of testing criterion and strengthening mechanisms for containment of infection. The ‘Test, Track, Treat’ method is the only solution to come out of the crisis without further damage but it entails a massive infusion of facilities in the present health infrastructure. The ICMR and health ministry are coming up with newer steps to enhance testing of symptomatic individuals. Yet, the battle is just half won as most hotspots are big cities hosting huge population. Making available testing facilities for such a massive number is a challenge for the health authorities. Roping in private hospitals and public sector units can only help in ramping up the infrastructure, for, testing and tracking is a complex exercise and requires maximum hands on the board. It is imperative that testing is made widely available to prevent spread of infection and save lives. The fight continues!