- By Aalok Sensharma
- Sun, 26 Apr 2020 12:39 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
New Delhi | Jagran News Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the nation in his monthly radio program and said that India's fight against the novel coronavirus is 'people-driven'.
Addressing the nation in his monthly radio program, PM Modi praised state governments, health workers, saying that people are rising to occasion to help each other and the whole country is battling this pandemic together.
"India's fight against coronavirus is people-driven. This fight is being fought by the people and the administration together. Every citizen as a soldier is fighting this war," PM Modi said, as quoted by news agency ANI.
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"In the middle of this pandemic, the farmers are ensuring that no one sleeps hungry in our country. Each person is fighting this war as per their capacity. Some are waiving off house rent, also some labourers who are in quarantine at a school are whitewashing the school etc," PM Modi added.
Asking people to aviod spitting in public places, PM Modi said that it will increase basic hygiene and strengthen fight against COVID-19. He also spoke about the importance of wearing masks, saying it is "just for precautions".
"Due to COVID19, masks are becoming a part of our lives. It doesn't mean that all those wearing are sick. Masks will become a symbol of a civilised society. If you want to protect yourselves and others from the disease, the use of a mask is important," he said.
Expressing gratitude towards health workers, PM Modi praised the government's decision to bring the ordinance that provides stringent punishment for those indulging in violence against corona warriors and said that it was critical to ensure the safety of all doctors, nurses and paramedical staff.
Talking about the government's decision to supply mediciens to other countries, PM Modi said that it was guided by its ethos and he feels very proud when world leaders thank India and its people for the assistance.
"You would have seen in the past few days, that India has taken some decisions while keeping true to its culture and ethos – and upholding our cultural heritage. During this crisis, the world - including rich and prosperous nations - is facing a shortage of medicines," PM Modi said.
Ending his address, PM Modi said that the country observed many festivals such as Bihu, Baisakhi, Puthandu, Vishu and Odia New Year which how people celebrated these festivals staying indoors, with great simplicity while wishing well for society.
He also said that as a member of the country's family, it is his responsibility to touch upon certain points and offer some suggestions.
"I also wish that when we meet during the next episode of Mann Ki Baat, may some news of escape from the clutches of this pandemic and mankind emerging out of this predicament greet us from all over the world! Thank you very much," he said.
