Prime Minister Modi announced the extension of the COVID-19 lockdown till May 3 in his morning address to the nation. The PM expressed gratitude to the citizens for the sacrifices they had made so far and stated that a new set of guidelines will be issued on Wednesday. India has reported more than 10 thousand cases of the virus infection and over 3 hundred deaths so far, according to the Union health ministry.
Highlights of PM Modi’s address to the nation:
1. Lockdown extended till May 3
2. To ensure that new hotspots do not spring up. Hotspots will see enhanced lockdown measures. For this, the nation will face stricter lockdown measures till April 20
3. Till April 20, each district, each state will be monitored closely to see whether the lockdown is being followed. Then only it will be decided on relaxing the restrictions
4. The PM asked the public’s support in seven things:
a. Take care of those vulnerable in the family.
b. Follow the lockdown rules, social distancing norms.
c. Make sure you take measures to boost your immunity suggested by Ayush Ministry.
d. Download the Arogya Setu app.
e. Help the poor, ensure provisions for them.
f. Show empathy towards those working with you, don’t fire people.
g. Respect those at the forefront in the fight against coronavirus – doctors, health officials, policemen.
5. PM maintained that easing the difficulty of poor people, farmers is among his top priorities.
The PM stated that the country has benefited from social distancing and lockdown, even though it came with a price; however, that is not more important than saving the lives of Indians. He added that while many developed nations are facing challenges in fighting against the spread, India did not wait for the crisis to aggravate.
“You have helped save the nation. I am aware of the challenges you all are facing. Some of you are away from home, others are finding challenges in getting food, other essentials. I bow to all of you,” the PM added.
He concluded by saying that the nation’s resolve to fight the pandemic is a true tribute to Baba Saheb Ambedkar. The country has shown ‘we the people of India’ spirit during the lockdown.