Many state governments, as well as experts, are requesting the central government to extend the lockdown
The central government is thinking in this direction
NEW DELHI, 07 April 2020. Following requests from several state governments and experts, the central government is now planning whether to extend the 21-day nationwide lockdown that is scheduled to end on April 14.
“Many state governments, as well as experts, are requesting the central government to extend the lockdown. The central government is thinking in this direction,” government sources said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on March 24 announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown as a precautionary measure to control the spread of the coronavirus.
India’s tally of COVID-19 positive cases rose to 4,421, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Tuesday. Out of the 4,421 cases, 3,981 are active cases while 325 have been cured or discharged and one has migrated. The total toll stands at 114.
However, sources did not indicate if a final decision has been taken on the matter.
India is currently under the 21-day lockdown since March 25, with only essential services exempted, to contain the fast-spreading virus, which has claimed more than 75,800 lives and afflicted over 13.5 lakh people across 183 countries.
The development comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked countrymen to be ready for a long battle against the coronavirus pandemic, and exhorted people to not feel tired or defeated while and expressing confidence the country will emerge victorious in its fight.
This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.
