Picture : Twitter / ANI
In his fourth address to the nation during the coronavirus pandemic , Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced that the current lockdown will be extended till May 3, saying it is very necessary to contain the spread of the coronavirus pandemic in the country.
Modi said implementation of the lockdown will be strictly ensured in coming days to ensure that the virus does not spread to new areas.
New guidelines for the implementation of the lockdown 2.0 will be issued by the government on April 15th . While making new guidelines, we have kept in mind the interests of the poor and daily wage workers. Harvesting of Rabi crops is also underway. Central Govt and state Govts are working together to ensure that farmers face minimal problems
Some relaxations may be allowed after April 20 in places where there is no hotspot, he said.
According to PM Modi, Till 20th April, all districts, localities, states will be closely monitored, as to how strictly they are implementing norms. States which will not let hotspots increase, they could be allowed to let some important activities resume, but with certain conditions
He said India has managed to contain the spread of infection well due to its holistic approach in dealing with the crisis and sacrifices made by people of the country in the fight produced positive results.
Modi said India received huge benefits from the 21-day lockdown in checking the pandemic and added that the country has dealt with the situation better with limited resources.
Further in his fervent appeal he asked people to follow seven steps during the lockdown :
•Take extra care of elders at home, especially those who are ill
•Respect Lakshman Rekha of social distancing, use face covers/ mask
•Take care of poor families around you, feed them
•Follow guidelines of AYUSH ministry, drink warm water, kadhaa
•Show empathy towards co-workers, do not sack employees
•Download Aarogya Setu app, motivate others to install it
•Respect corona workers like doctors, nurses, health workers, police
