Venkaiah Naidu reviews preparedness for holding regular Parliament panel meetings

There were chaotic scenes at the hi-tech Mantralaya building in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, recently when the state administrative officials resumed duty after a long break following the nationwide lockdown. The first measure taken to combat Covid-19 was to switch off the air-conditioning system to prevent stale air from circulating.

Unfortunately, the building is equipped with a centralised air-conditioning system and the rooms do not have ceiling fans or any other mode of ventilation. With the mercury touching 45 degree Celsius, those attending could feel the heat immediately upon arriving. Some senior officers ordered table fans to be set up so they could start working. Those lower down the hierarchy were not so fortunate.

The junior staff then decided to follow suit — but at their own expense. They began collecting money to purchase table fans.