PM Modi Calls For 'Janta Curfew' On 22 March To Fight Against Coronavirus Outbreak In India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on the country to observe a 'janta curfew' on March 22 to create awareness about the coronavirus outbreak. Calling the coronavirus outbreak a crisis that has engulfed the entire human race, the PM appealed the people of the country to avoid going out as much as possible.

PM Modi said that the Janta curfew will also show the world how ready we are to tackle this virus. He also called upon the country to come together in the evening to show the gratitude towards the lakhs of staff in hospitals, airports, in offices who are busy working without worrying about themselves.

"Their chances of getting infected are high but they have continued to do their work taking a huge personal risk," he said.

"These are like protectors of the nation between the virus and the nation. The whole country salutes all these people. I request you to express your gratitude to all these people on March 22 at 5 pm on our doors, balconies or wherever, for 5 minutes, express our gratitude for these workers by clapping, by ringing a bell," the PM said.

Acknowledging the challenge in combating the epidemic, PM Modi said that the government is keeping a close watch on the track record of the spread of Coronavirus. "For a developing country like ours with a large population, the growing challenge of Coronavirus is not a normal situation," he said adding that "As citizens, people need to strengthen their resolve to follow the advisories issued by state and central governments."

Till l now science has not been able to find a proper remedy or vaccine has been developed yet. In such a situation, it is natural to worry. Restrain is compulsory to protect ourselves and remain healthy. Prime Minister Modi also appealed to people above the age of 60 to not venture out of their homes for the next few weeks. He also called upon the people not to burden the hospitals.

"At tough times such as these, ensure that our essential services, our hospitals do not get unnecessarily pressured. I request all to avoid going to hospitals for routine checkups. Only if it is essential, speak to your friendly doctors on the phone." he said.

The PM also said that the government has decided to form Covid-19 economic recovery task force under Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. He also called upon all traders - small or large - to also look after the welfare of those whose services you utilise "Please show compassion and don¡¯t cut their salaries," he said.