The Covid, July 17 -- 19 pandemic has given life to a new dimension globally. It has brought life into sharp focus. It shows us that wealth and power alone would not guarantee the survival of a nation. It shows us that having vast resources does not necessarily mean that a people or community is fit for survival. We know that the USA at the moment records a staggering number of over 137,800 deaths, while Sri Lanka, a small country in comparison, has still kept the number of deaths down to 11. India's health system is struggling as well. In the case of Sri Lanka, preparation, pragmatism, anticipation and efficiency have made the difference.

Now looking at a life beyond the pandemic, no country can afford to be complacent regardless of the...