Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the country amidst the second wave of Coronavirus. PM Modi in his address talked about what all has changed between the the two years, since the pandemic started in India. PM Modi said that last year, India was not at all prepared to deal with the Coronavirus pandemic but this year things have changed. His address comes after he interacted with top vaccine manufacturers in the country.
PM Modi expressed his condo;ences with people who lost their loved ones due to Covid-19. Referring to the two 'made in India' vaccines, he said that India started world's largest vaccination program. Till now, more than 12 crore vaccine doses have been administered. Also, from May 1, those above18 years of age can be vaccinated. PM Modi also assured that Centre and states are taking every step necessary to increase the oxygen supply in the country.
Here are 10 major highlights from PM Modi's address to the nation.
1. PM Modi expressed his condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones due to Coronavirus pandemic. He said the challenge is big but we have to overcome it with our determination and courage.
2. PM Modi thanked the health workers for their tireless efforts and said - I thank all the doctors, medical staff, para medical staff of the country. These people saved the country by placing their lives at stake. Today once again in this crisis, you are working day and night to save the lives of others.
3. PM Modi urged everyone to be patient during difficult times. He said - We should not lose patience even in the toughest of times, to deal with any situation, we should take the right decision, and try in the right direction only then we can achieve victory.
4. Reacting to the shortage of oxygen in the nation, PM Modi said - The demand for oxygen has increased in many parts of the country. The government is working fast and full sensitivity on this subject. The central, state government along with the private sector is trying its best to provide oxygen to every needy.
5. About the pharma sector, PM Modi said - The pharma sector of the country has increased the production of medicines. To increase production, the help of pharmaceutical companies is being sought in every way. We are fortunate that our country has such a strong pharma sector.
6. Hospitals all over the country are currently overcrowded due to too many cases of Coronavirus being reported everyday. PM Modi said the government is working to increase the number of beds rapidly in hospitals.
7. Regarding the vaccine, PM Modi said - Our scientists developed vaccines for the country in a very short time. Today, India has the cheapest vaccine in the world. In this endeavor, our private sector has demonstrated the spirit of innovation.
8. PM Modi on lockdown- I request the states to use lockdown as the last option. We have to try to avoid lockdown. We will also improve the health of our economy and the health of our countrymen.
9. PM Modi also mentioned Navratri and Ramadan in his address. He said - today is the last day of Navratri, tomorrow is Ram Navami. Today is also the seventh day of the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan teaches us patience, self-control and discipline. To win from Corona, discipline is equally needed.
10. PM Modi's appeal to the migrating laborers: Workers who are migrating due to lockdown should remain where they are. This trust given by the states to the workers will help them, and that they will be vaccinated in the city where they are.