PM Narendra Modi Likely To Address Nation on Covid-19 Lockdown Extension

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to address the nation again to announce his decision on whether the coronavirus lockdown will end on Tuesday. He will first interact with chief ministers of all states on Saturday via video. They will together take a call on whether the 21-day lockdown should be extended. The PM is then likely to address the nation to announce his decision on whether the nationwide lockdown will end this Tuesday or continued.

Many states have sought an extension of the 21-day nationwide lockdown to contain the fast-spreading virus. Odisha went on to become the first state to announce a lockdown until the end of this month. States like Karnataka,
Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan, Assam, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh are some who have called for a longer lockdown.

Addressing floor leaders of various parties in Parliament, Prime Minister Modi made it clear that the lockdown cannot be lifted in one go on April 14. He also asserted that the priority of his government is to “save each and every life”.

As reported by Sources to NDTV, The lockdown may be extended but there will be many changes. Interstate movement will remain restricted, except for essential services. Schools, colleges and religious institutions are likely to stay closed.

The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the economy too. Out of the many sectors affected the worst affected is the aviation sector. Airlines may be gradually allowed to resume operations but with less load and also like keeping the middle seat vacant in all classes.

India has 6,412 cases of coronavirus, including 199 deaths. Thirty-three deaths have been reported in the past 24 hours.

Also Read: Coronavirus Pandemic: 547 fresh COVID-19 cases in 24 hrs take tally to 6,412 in India