New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has clearly said the lockdown to contain the surge of COVID-19 across India should be the last resort for the State governments.

In a 19-minute address to the nation this evening, Modi asked the States to use the strategy of micro-containment zones as against a total lockdown. He also asked the states to address the problem of workers leaving the cities fearing loss of livelihood and fear of disease.

He said the State governments must tell the workers that they will not lose their jobs and also all the people above 18 will get protection against the COVID-19 by getting a jab of vaccination in the coming days.

He asked the people to use restraint and not move out of their homes as this behavior alone will help in fighting the disease. He said everyone must keep patience at this difficult time.

He in particular asked the youth to contribute towards beating the second wave of COVID by making local volunteer groups to help in the neighbourhood in these difficult times.

He assured people that India has the cheapest vaccine and the production has been ramped up to ensure all Indians get vaccinated. He asked people to draw confidence from the fact that already front line workers have been vaccinated against the Coronavirus.