Use lockdown as a 'last resort' and focus on micro-containment zones: PM Modi appeals to states

Acknowledging that the country is fighting a huge battle, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ruled out imposing a nationwide lockdown amid surging Covid cases. Addressing the nation on Tuesday evening, PM Modi said that the situation this year was different than the last time when the country has little experience of tackling such a pandemic. 

PM Modi said states should use lockdown as a 'last resort' and the focus should be micro-containment zones. 

Referring to the



shortage of oxygen, medicines being reported by several states, PM Modi said that the pharma sector has increased the production of medicines, adding that several new oxygen plants have been set up in many states and the government is working round the clock to ensure oxygen supply to everyone in need.

I appeal to state governments to convince labourers, workers to stay wherever they are and not leave (to their home states). The government will look after them and also start vaccination for them, said Modi.