Shruti Dhaundiyal is a PhD candidate in Land Economy at Queens’, who returned home to India as the scale of the COVID-19 crisis became apparent. She is now living with her parents and writes below of the challenges she is facing as she works to complete her PhD this summer. Her PhD is on the role of communities in environmental impact assessments, based on the Indian Himalayan Region. She researches whether the participation of mountain- and forest-dwelling communities in the decisions to divert forest and alpine mountain areas towards hydro power projects and dam building can create positive solutions.
“Having spent a 28-day quarantine period in a private house near my city, I am finally now at home. It has been difficult adjusting to the change in place and resource access – I live in a rural Himalayan valley so internet and electricity are two very big issues on a daily basis, but I am sure there are many who have it worse still in the developing world. We have food rationing but the basic good supply of rice and lentils is ensured by the government.
I am able to contribute to my household through the fee adjustment that I received last year through Queens’ efforts so I do not feel so heavy hearted living with my retired parents – my thanks once again to Professor Hall (Graduate Tutor). We also have a Prime Minister’s fund that everyone can contribute to which feeds migrants workers and other labour daily – it is a kind effort that makes most people feel connected to the national effort of controlling the virus while taking care of the masses of households who live below the poverty line across city peripheries, in areas such as mine.
Our news is confusing with local doctors voicing that since the government is not testing, the reported numbers of Covid-19 patients and the associated deaths are not true and misleading. It is a tough decision to be transparent for all involved.
I am sure things will get easier in due course but, for now, the lack of net connectivity and thus access to referencing source and material is my main obstruction to timely submission and finding a job as soon as possible is essential. Keeping laptops charged is another issue. Despite this, I am on track to submit by June or July this year. I do hope there is the possibility of return after July – not just to put my affairs in order and collect belongings, but to also complete my submission and corrections at peace.
I am waiting for a better time and meanwhile sending the University and Queens’ lots of blessings and strength.”
If any other students, Fellows or staff members would like to share their lockdown story, please contact the Communications Officer, Alice Webster.