The COVID-19 outbreak not only presented a public health emergency but also evolved into a significant information crisis. Amidst misinformation and information overload, citizens faced challenges in navigating the media landscape that delivered crucial updates related to the outbreak. It was during this critical period that SDC Foundation, building upon its development communication framework, actively engaged in evidence-based and data-driven communication to disseminate information on COVID-19.
(SDC Founder Anoop Nautiyal's Facebook videos sharing critical COVID-19 data)
Leveraging various social media channels, SDC effectively communicated vital topics, including data related to COVID-19 cases, testing, and the death toll in Uttarakhand. To enhance accessibility, a comprehensive state-wide dashboard was created, offering citizens a detailed overview of these trends. In addition to this, SDC produced diverse content formats, including audio-video content, factsheets, blogs, and infographics, aiming to make information more user-friendly. SDC also published a city leadership handbook, outlining the crucial roles various stakeholders in a city could play in responding to the COVID-19 crisis.
The impact of these efforts was substantial, reaching over one lakh people on social media and attracting significant support and attention from mainstream media outlets. Prominent channels such as NDTV and Aaj Tak, along with leading print platforms including Hindustan Times, Times of India, Amar Ujala, Garhwal Post, and Dainik Jagran, prominently covered SDC's communication and information dissemination initiatives.
Read our full case study on this programme published in Citizen Matters here.
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