Evidence

Uttar Pradesh and Bihar are two of the most populous states in India, and face almost similar challenges. Both the states saw a spurt in COVID-19 cases with the return of migrant populations and challenges related to the containment of the virus. Their COVID-19 RCCE strategies brought adequate focus on exploring the use of mass, mid, local and social media effectively; developing COVID-19 champions through capacity building for message dissemination and counselling; mobilising community influencers and gatekeepers; and finding innovative ways to keep interpersonal communication (IPC) alive in the midst of restricted movement. As part of these efforts, both the states undertook several initiatives, of which some emerged as good practices that merit dissemination and have the potential for replication. This compendium is a compilation of six such initiatives– two from Bihar and four from Uttar Pradesh.  This is a useful document for implementers.  Click here to read the compendium.