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The Need for Localized, Socio-economic Policy Measures for Controlling a Pandemic: An Empirical Study of COVID-19 in India

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  • Ashish Gupta
  • Prashant Das
  • Dongshin Kim

Abstract

We examine the localized nature of COVID-19 pandemic spread in India. Through Gamma curve-fitting we observe that the infection patterns exhibit substantial variation across locations. Areas with larger male population and higher economic activity witness more cases. Economically-deprived districts experience higher mortality after controlling for the infections. Mobility in spatially contiguous locations is a significant determinant of new infections. Our study emphasizes the role of socioeconomic factors in explaining the variation across districts. The findings support the need for locally-specific policy, better medical infrastructure in socio-economically vulnerable localities and social-distancing measures in controlling the spread.

Suggested Citation

  • Ashish Gupta & Prashant Das & Dongshin Kim, 2024. "The Need for Localized, Socio-economic Policy Measures for Controlling a Pandemic: An Empirical Study of COVID-19 in India," Vikalpa: The Journal for Decision Makers, , vol. 49(3), pages 213-229, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:vikjou:v:49:y:2024:i:3:p:213-229
    DOI: 10.1177/02560909241260234
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    References listed on IDEAS

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