The Silver Lining to the Dark Cloud

There is no doubt about the fact that Coronavirus has devastated the entire world. In less than 9 months, the whole world is suffering from its atrocities. With almost 5 million companies affected globally and various economic sectors facing a severe low in share market prices, falling GDP, dooming businesses, inability to cope with demand scarcity, furloughed workforce…the effects of the pandemic are worrisome.

While some sectors are struggling to survive and fighting a long exhausting battle, some also boomed like silver linings in the dark, dark clouds.

The online education sector which was still trying to make its own niche amidst the normal classroom programs saw a sudden and huge shift. A number of online platforms emerged giving free access to about 1.2 billion students affected by school and university closures. Whether it is language application, virtual tutoring, video conferencing tools or learning software, there has been a remarkable surge in the usage.

Apart from Ed-tech, the Agri-tech sector also clawed its way into the market. With 50% of India being involved in agriculture sector, it could not power through the pandemic without proper distribution and marketing channels. The large scale digitization of agriculture sector and Agri-tech has therefore gained traction during these tough times. Farmers have now opted for the Digital Mandi option to directly contact the wholesale buyers to sell their produce.

With operations of PVR, theatre, multiplexes being shut temporarily, OTT platforms grew remarkably popular and found a new surge in viewers. 

Some corporate giants are also going the extra mile to make work from home for employees working remotely more comfortable and convenient. This is done so by offering allowances for workstation utilities, health and welfare benefits and covers, extending a three day weekend to reduce stress and prolonged working hours, parental perks, free subscription to a number of learning tools to enhance skills, etc.

The practices in various sectors might permanently change post COVID.
Let’s work together positively & hope that all of us emerge safe and sound on the other side! 🙂