Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 14: In a major announcement made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the lockdown extension date was declared to be May 3. Modi began his address on lockdown extension on April 14 at 10 am. He began saying that India was handling the situation effectively and efficiently as possible. He thanked the frontline workers who are in the battle against COVID-19. "Our fight against the novel coronavirus pandemic is progressing with strength," the PM said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the trouble being faced by the people of India during the COVID-19 lockdown. "In our constitution, 'We the People' is written, and this fight is what it signifies, he said. Modi also paid tribute to BR Ambedkar on his birth anniversary.
Modi emphasized that India had started screening at airports and 14-day isolation for those coming from abroad, well in advance. "We decided to implement this 21-day lockdown when we had only about 550 cases," he said.
The PM urged the people to not compare the COVID-19 situation in India with other countries. However, he stated that India was in a better position than a few of the developed countries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi says the lockdown has been extended till 3 May, and that coronavirus should be curbed at every level. Even if one person dies due to coronavirus, he noted that "Our tension should increase. That is why hotspots have to be surveilled with extended vigilance and take harsh steps to curb the spread of coronavirus. If new hotspots arrive, our efforts will face problems."
The PM also announced that the lockdown will remain more strict till April 20. But, those areas or zones who have reported little to no cases, are likely to have a relaxed lockdown. However, the restriction eased for these areas will be subject to several conditions. He also stressed that the officials need to keep a close watch on any new hotspots that may emerge.
The government will put out detailed guidelines, the PM said. He assured that there is enough ration and stock of essential commodities in the country, underlining that there should be a reason to not panic buy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also highlighted the improvement of the health infrastructure. He announced that labs have come up, beds have increased and that more than 600 hospitals are working for coronavirus treatment. These facilities are being added every day. Even with our limited resources, Modi requested young scientists to come forth and help in creating the coronavirus vaccine.
The PM then laid down seven guidelines to be followed by the people:
- Elders in the family to be looked after, especially the ones with existing ailments
- Use homemade masks, follow social distancing
- Improve your immunity through the steps provided by AYUSH ministry
- Download Aarogya Setu mobile app, the government's coronavirus tracker.
- Help underprivileged families
- Employers to be empathetic towards workers and employees, and not lay off anyone.
- Corona warriors like doctors, nurses, sanitation workers to be appreciated for their selfless service
Prime Minister Narendra Modi ended his address by asking people to be very vigilant in following the coronavirus lockdown, which has now extended till 3 May. He wished everyone good health against this coronavirus menace.
Following his address, the PM tweeted and urged every citizen to stay vigil and stay safe.