PM Modi Addresses Nation: Lockdown Extended to 3 May

PM Modi addressed the nation today at 10 am, and as expected he announced an extension of the lockdown in India. Lockdown extended to 3 May. “We are all aware of the Coronavirus onslaught in the world. But India has handled the situation well. We started screening cases even before one positive case was detected in India. When there were 500 cases, we announced a 21 days lockdown. India did not wait for the problem to arise to take measures,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India is doing well in containing the Coronavirus pandemic when compared to many other developed nations, added PM Modi. “If India had not adopted a holistic and integrated approach, and had not adopted speedy measures, our situation may have been grave. Social distancing and lockdown have played a huge role in this. Economically, we have had to bear the impact, but it is a small price to pay to save precious lives of Indians,” said PM Modi.

Even after an extensive lockdown, Coronavirus is still spreading. He also mentioned the extensive discussions he had with all state chief ministers. “After taking into consideration all opinions of leaders and citizens of the country, Lockdown will be extended to 3 May,” announced PM Modi. Expected hotspots will be sealed and treated strictly. Until 20 April all districts will be carefully examined and if the lockdown is being followed will be evaluated.

He also requested everyone to download the Aarogya Setu mobile app to help the country's efforts against Coronavirus. PM Modi also urged everyone to not layoff employees and remove them from work during these tough times.