New Delhi, Mar 30 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi here on Monday urged the social welfare organisations to support the government amid the coronavirus epidemic.

Interacting with representatives of social organisations through video link, Modi said the nation was facing an "unprecedented crisis and needs their service and resources like never before."

These organisations, he said, could play a huge role in arranging basic necessities for the poor, and by dedicating their medical facilities and volunteers to serve patients and the needy.

The nation needed both short- and long-term vision to overcome the challenge, he said.

Observing that people have been seen gathering and flouting social distancing norms in the name of belief, Modi urged them to help counter superstitions, beliefs and misinformation.

The Prime Minister noted the nation was displaying immense resilience, grit and patience in facing the Covid-19 challenge that has claimed 29 lives and infected over 1,000.

Recalling Mahatma Gandhi's words that serving the poor and downtrodden is the best way to serve the nation, the Prime Minister praised the dedication and commitment of the participating organisations to serve the humanity.

Prime Minister said these organisations had three distinct specialities -- humane approach, massive reach and connect with people and a service mindset -- due to which they were trusted implicitly.

The representatives of social welfare organisations praised the Prime Minister for navigating a complicated situation with dexterity and lauded the pro-active measures, which had been effective in controlling the coronavirus spread.

Pledging their support for the PM-CARES fund, they said their workforce would be dedicated to the cause of serving the nation.

Modi reiterated the importance of spreading awareness, helping the poor and needy with arranging basic necessities, medical facilities and dedicating volunteers to the cause.

He stressed the importance of medical and scientific advices and countering misinformation.

Advisor to the Prime Minister, and the NITI Aayog CEO also participated in the interaction.