New Delhi, Apr 26 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India's fight against the novel coronavirus pandemic is people driven.

Speaking in the 64th edition of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister said people have been taking lead in various sectors in fight against the deadly virus such as distribution of food to the poor, supply of masks and in following the lockdown measures.

He said that people are rising to the occasion to help each other and stress on the need to wear masks, specially handmade or 'Gamchha' (towel).

The Prime Minister also emphasized to eradicate the habit of spitting in fights against COVID-19.

"Look around, you will see how India has taken up a people-drive battle against COVID-19. India's fight against COVID-19 is people-driven. Every Indian is a soldier in this fight," Modi said.

Noting when the whole world is struggling with this epidemic, the Prime Minister said when it will be discussed in future, its modalities will be discussed.

"I am sure that this people driven fight of India will definitely be discussed."

The Prime Minister's address came at a time when the entire country is under complete lockdown -- a measure to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus or COVID-19 which has so far claimed 824 lives and over 19,800 confirmed infected cases across the country.

Modi had announced a 21-day lockdown on March 24. On April 14, he extended the nationwide restrictions for another 19 days till May 3 in the backdrop of growing COVID-19 cases.