Nachiket Mor, expert in health systems design, and Dr Abhay Bang, public health expert with deep experience working at the grassroots, debate the approach India must take when fighting the second wave of COVID-19. Mor is in favour of a more centralised approach, grounded in science and trust. On the contrary, Bang believes local communities know best when it comes to their problems. Highlights –  The current catastrophe we are facing in India points to the need for a stronger governance model, and a health system that inspires trust, and better serves the people.  Comprehensive, high quality primary care informed by expertise has to be the bedrock of any health system. We need both science, as well as the knowledge, experience, and buy-in of local communities at the grassroots, to fight a pandemic like this one.  Communities need to be at the centre of this fight, with the government, the private sector, and civil society, doing more.  For more information about IDR, go to www.idronline.com. Also, follow IDR on Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter and Instagram. Read more:  How you can support nonprofits in their COVID-19 relief efforts in 2021 How is rural Bihar dealing with the second wave of COVID-19? A pandemic, an infodemic, and the fear of vaccination Mental health and COVID-19 in India Making virtual volunteering work Research, for whom? A day in the life of a hospital ward worker, who cares for COVID-19 patients at a government hospital A day in the life of a sero survey field manager, who works in the slums of Mumbai.  The Wisdom of the Crowds You cannot bypass the power of communities Photo essay: The everyday lives of migrants This is a Maed in India production. To find out more visit www.maedinindia.in.