PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF GOVERNMENT POLICIES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

A multitude of public health and economic policies were introduced in India during the COVID-19 pandemic such as lockdown, mask mandate, vaccine campaign and financial relief. However, these measures evolved in public perception over time; they were communicated through economic hardships, misinformation, and the inconsistent enforcement of them. At first, people initially thought that lockdowns and mask mandates were the right move, but extended restrictions have proven to be unpopular as they’ve caused people to become financially unstable and compliant fatigue. Public reluctance to get vaccinated as a main obstacle existed because people doubted vaccine safety alongside distrust of information, but awareness drives led to greater acceptance rates. The public received economic relief programs favourably because of free ration distribution but criticized cash transfers and MSME loan schemes because of delayed implementation and bureaucratic issues. The research demonstrates public trust in governmental actions shows constant change which requires open dialogue and fair health services distribution and quick and effective economic relief delivery. Future government policies need to address information falsity while simplifying assistance distribution and build economic strength which defends public health readiness.