Thread. As we go forward with our efforts against COVID-19, this is the time for concerted action and unity. Views that principally pivot on action through science are very necessary and welcome. All other differences are best set aside now.

We are in this together, must work together. Facilitate, collectively, the implementation of decisions. In matters relating to protecting our communities, there can be no room for flexible interpretations that dilutes effectiveness. Scientists must convey this clearly, resolutely

Keep S&T inputs coming, here and through every channel. Each is carefully examined. Our office analyses posts on science from India and the world over. These are discussed widely and interpreted in our context and, when meaningful, used in decisions.

Our focus is on the task at hand and the very best expertise from every quarter is brought to it. This is what we are doing, this is what we will continue to do, always. Attention is prioritized. Given to immediate, short, mid and long term.

Scientific conclusions on every topic always come with intense, critical, and frank debate. This is all the more important now. This is happening on every front and will continue to happen. Analyses and views on S&T always welcome @PrinSciAdvGoI and GoI in general.

It is after intense discussion of all aspects decisions are taken. We all stand behind the decisions that follow, and constantly examine them in the light of the emergence of new evidence. Should they need revision, feedback is given regularly and taken.

Here are some major announcements over the past few days that we all, particularly scientists and engineers need to be thoroughly familiar with.

Contact Tracing. Download AarogyaSetu for your smartphone. A feature- phone version will come soon. Tracing contacts of those who turn out to be positive, helps you, helps all. This App is not for others alone. It is for you.
https://www.mygov.in/aarogya-setu-app/

Data on your phone and server is used only for protection against the disease. Your privacy and security are assured. Your opting out could endanger yourself and others. You opting in can help you and others. Opt-in and tell others to do so.

Testing. The ICMR has broadened the testing to now include antibody tests under specific conditions. Please see and understand these. Speedy testing and tracking need to go together. There will be a separate thread explaining the tests.

Empowered Groups. There are 11 empowered groups constituted by the MHA. Please see the announcement and understand it. It will tell you what these groups address 24X7 and how decisions are taken and reviewed. https://mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/MHA%20Order%20on%20%20Disaster%20Management%20Act%202005_0.pdf

Containment Plans. The Health Ministry has brought out a well-thought-of containment action plan for different scenarios as we go together. Read this carefully, please. This will allow us to plan together. https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/3ContainmentPlanforLargeOutbreaksofCOVID19Final.pdf

Finally, our scientists, industrialists, start-ups, incubators, institutions and science agencies have come together brilliantly There is much more to do but with your leadership and collaboration everything is feasible.