Given the challenges posed by the Corona Virus , the Karnataka Government is working on war footing to dispel any doubts and fears in the minds of people. The  “Covid -19 Karnataka” a social media group on Telegram  an initiative of the Department of Information and Public Relations is getting  hugee response with thousands of citizens taking to the group. Within a week , there are over 12000 members on the group. Comprising of Officials of the DIPR , Medical professionals , Volunteers and media professionals the Telegram group is working 2 x 7 to dispel any fear that any citizzen has.

The telegram group Covid 19 Karnataka is abuzz all the time with updates from across tthe state as panic stricken residents of Bengaluru and other districts take to it for any query that they have.  Working under the supervision of Secretary , Information and PR the group sees #CoronaWarriors fighting any misinformation and rumours. “The aim is to ensure total transparency , as the regular flow of Information from the Government quells any misinformation at source”says H B Dinesh Joint Director Information .

Volunteers  have been drawn from all walks of life with expertise in handling social media and work round the clock at the war- room like ambience at the Control Room in Bengaluru. Every query from concerned citizens is verified and replied to seeking information from concerned government departments and medical experts. ” Most of the queries are genuine concerns and our volunteers  try their best to resolve it immediately. Some are personal fears  or apprehensions and webuild confidence in them to stay calm.” says Sreeja , Coordinator of the Jan Snehi project.

A team of doctors has also been deputed at the Control Room to coordinate any emergency with Corona elpline 104  and the hospitals