Narendra Modi On Covid-19 Outbreak: PM Puts India Under 'Curfew-Like Lockdown' For 3 Weeks

This is the PM Modi's second address to the nation since Thursday, when he called for a 'Janata Curfew' on Sunday, a 14-hour self-quarantine to fight the spread of the deadly virus.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation on Coronavirus pandemic, in New Delhi. (Image: PTI)

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday once again addressed the nation amidst the Coronavirus pandemic that has infected over 500 people and costed 11 lives in the country so far. While speaking to citizens of the country via video conferencing, PM Modi announced that the entire country will be put under a 'curfew-like' lockdown starting from midnight today. The lockdown will be effective for 21 days, till April 13. All states and union territories will come under its purview. PM Modi said that it is an essential step to fight Coronavirus decisively. He added that saving lives is priority as of now. "With folded hands, I request you to stay put wherever you are," said Prime Minister Modi. He added that he is mindful of the economic ramifications of it. However, this is a smaller concern.

BREAKING - From 12am tonight, India will be under complete lockdown. This is kind of curfew, more stricter than janta curfew. It is for 3 weeks. This is a very important step. Please stay wherever you are. We have to save ppl's lives: PM Modi

Watch LIVE: https://t.co/PQbT45sMtv pic.twitter.com/oEQGAq08Vf — ABP News (@ABPNews) March 24, 2020

PM Modi warned, if we don't follow a complete lockdown for the coming 21 days, the nation will go back 21 years and many families will be devastated. He also said many powerful countries in the world have become helpless, regardless of their efforts. He once again reiterated that social distancing is the only way to deal with this deadly coronavirus that has infected more than 500 in India, so far. ALSO WATCH | Coronavirus Crisis: PM Modi announces complete lockdown in India for 21 days "Some people are under the misconception that social distancing is only for those infected with coronavirus... but they should understand that this for everyone because it is important to break the cycle," said PM Modi in his address to the nation. This was the PM Modi's second address to the nation since Thursday, when he called for a 'Janata Curfew' on Sunday, a 14-hour self-quarantine to fight the spread of the deadly virus. Since then, India has witnessed a near lockdown in 32 states and union territories till March 31.

If we are not able to manage the upcoming 21 crucial days (of nationwide complete lockdown), we will be pushed back 21 years: PM Narendra Modi #Coronavirus

Watch LIVE: https://t.co/PQbT45sMtv pic.twitter.com/v3M8DQxG04 — ABP News (@ABPNews) March 24, 2020

Centre has also asked all the states to clamp curfew wherever necessary in the wake of people defying lockdown orders. Two states - Punjab and Maharashtra - and a UT - Puducherry - have already declared curfew in their respective areas.

Rs 15,000 crore allotted for #Coronavirus testing facilities, PPEs, ICUs, Ventilators and training medical workers...We are taking all steps to ensure continuous supply of essential commodities: PM Narendra Modi#CoronavirusLockdown

Watch LIVE: https://t.co/PQbT45sMtv — ABP News (@ABPNews) March 24, 2020

On Tuesday, India's total Coronavirus positive cases rose to 519, with 11 deaths across the country, 40 cases of cured patients. Earlier in the day, PM Modi said it is imperative to keep the fighting spirit of the people up to stop the pandemic in its march. Prime Minister Modi while interacting with senior journalists from the print media via video links said citizens need to be assured that the government is committed to countering the impact of COVID-19.