States should consider lockdowns only as last option, says PM Modi

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that "the States should consider lockdowns only as the last option and focus on creating micro-containment zones". He said this while addressing the nation on Tuesday night.

The Prime Minister further said, "I request the State governments to urge the workers to stay 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."

He pointed out, "The Centre, State governments and the private sector are working together to make oxygen available to all those who need it. Many steps are being taken in this direction."

Modi also said that this time the demand for oxygen has increased in several parts of the country and the government is working with full sensitivity to meet the demand. "The Union government, State governments, private sector, everyone is trying their best to provide oxygen to those in need," said Modi.

The Prime Minister also told the nation that several measures are being taken at different levels to increase the production and supply of oxygen in the country. "New oxygen plants are being set up in the States, delivery of one lakh new oxygen cylinders, use of industrial units for medical purposes, oxygen rail... the government making every effort to ensure oxygen for the needy," he said.

The Prime Minister also lauded the efforts of the scientists, saying that they have developed vaccines for the countrymen in a very short time working day and night.

"Today, the cheapest vaccine in the world is in India. We have a vaccine suited to India's cold chain system," he said, pointing out that it is a team effort that enabled India to launch the world's largest vaccination campaign with two made in India vaccines.

"Efforts are also on to increase the number of beds for COVID patients in hospitals. In some cities, large COVID-19 dedicated hospitals are being built."

"We are facing the second wave of COVID-19 now. I understand your pain. Express my sympathies to those who lost their loved ones to COVID-19," he said. (Agencies)

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