MHA
The Lockdown guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, GoI. (Morung graphic)
New Delhi, March 24 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced nationwide three weeks lockdown starting from Tuesday midnight. All states and union territories will come under its purview.
He said this is an essential step to fight coronavirus decisively. He added that saving lives is priority as of now.
"With folded hands, I request you to stay put wherever you are," said Prime Minister Modi. He added that he is mindful of the economic ramifications of it. However, this is a smaller concern.
PM Modi warned, if we don't follow a complete lockdown for the coming 21 days, the nation will go back 21 years and many families will be devastated.
He also said many powerful countries in the world have become helpless, regardless of their efforts. He once again reiterated that social distancing is the only way to deal with this deadly coronavirus that has infected more than 500 in India, so far.
"Some people are under the misconception that social distancing is only for those infected with coronavirus... but they should understand that this for everyone because it is important to break the cycle," said PM Modi in his address to the nation.
Rs 15k cr for healthcare infra
OM Modi also announced allocation of Rs 15000 crore to strengthen healthcare infrastructure to fight coronavirus in India.
In a televised speech, he said: "Today the Centre has decided to give Rs 15,000 crore for testing facilities, personal protection, isolation beds, ICU beds, ventilators and training medical and paramedical staff. Healthcare should be the only priority of every state government."
The PM also sought support from the private sector in healthcare to come forward and support the country in these tough circumstances. "Private labs and hospitals should come forth to extend their support to fight coronavirus," he added.
