THE IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON THE INDIAN ECONOMY: CHALLENGES, DISRUPTIONS, AND PATHWAYS TO RECOVERY

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to the Indian economy, causing widespread disruptions across various sectors. This research paper examines the multifaceted impact of the pandemic, focusing on the nationwide lockdown imposed in March 2020 and its repercussions on employment, supply chains, consumer spending, and the overall economic landscape. Sectors such as hospitality, tourism, manufacturing, and retail bore the brunt of the crisis, while the plight of migrant workers underscored the vulnerability of Indias informal labor force. Amidst these challenges, the paper also explores the resilience and innovation demonstrated by certain sectors, such as technology and e-commerce. Furthermore, it discusses the lessons learned from the crisis and outlines potential pathways to economic recovery, emphasizing the importance of digital transformation and sustainable development in shaping Indias future economy.