Restrictions toughened, lockdown extended: Takeaways from PM's speech
Indians will not get a respite from the lockdown, just yet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a short while ago. The lockdown, which originally started on March 25 for 21 days, has been extended till May 3, after considering all the factors. He said restrictions will contain the spread of COVID-19, the disease that has left countries baffled. Here are takeaways from his speech.
India is doing well in fight against coronavirus: PM Modi
PM Modi, who covered his mouth with a Manipuri Lengyan Phi to stress on the importance of face masks, appreciated how far India has come, despite limited resources, in its fight against coronavirus. But that doesn't mean Indians can relax, he noted. He said even the rich countries aren't able to control the spread. "We need to remain disciplined and practise social distancing."
We didn't wait for problem to increase, said PM Modi
"India did not wait for the problem to increase. It isn't right to compare our fight with those of other countries, yet it's necessary to point out that if you see developed countries today, we are in a more controlled situation," he went on.
Lockdown will be stricter till April 20
In his 25-minute address, PM Modi said the restrictions will be more strict for the coming week, till April 20. He emphasized that the nation can't afford any more hotspots and every death due to deadly disease is heartbreaking. Till the aforementioned date, all districts will be closely monitored. Some essential services will be allowed to function after taking stock, he explained.
"We have over 1L beds, more are being added"
Talking about preparedness, PM Modi said 220 labs across the country are testing for coronavirus. "According to the world's experience of tackling COVID-19, 1,500-1,600 beds are needed when cases reach 10,000. We have over 1 lakh beds in India & over 600 hospitals for treating COVID patients. We're expanding these facilities," he added. He also claimed there is enough stock of medicines and food.
PM Modi urged scientists to come up with vaccine
In what marks a significant statement, PM Modi said, "We have limited measures to fight this battle. I have a request to youngsters, scientists of this country to try and come up with a vaccine." He revealed that a set of guidelines would be issued tomorrow.
Before bidding adieu, PM Modi listed down seven rules
Before ending his speech, he asked Indians to follow seven rules rigorously. He asked them to take care of senior citizens; use homemade masks; download the Aarogya Setu app; help poor people by taking care of their food needs; and urged affluent Indians to not sack anyone. PM Modi requested Indians to respect healthcare workers and remain where they are till May 3.
