States & Centre must team up to combat coronavirus, says PM Narendra Modi

States & Centre must team up to combat coronavirus, says PM Narendra Modi

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with the chief ministers of all States via video conferencing to discuss measures to combat COVID-19.

The Prime Minister said that the threat of the pandemic is common for all states and underscored the need of the Centre and all States working together. He said that while participation of citizens is necessary to combat the challenge, but panic needs to be avoided. He added that given the global context of spread of the virus in various countries, constant vigilance is of paramount importance.

He said that the next 3-4 weeks are crucial in efforts to contain the spread of the virus, and the most important measure for containment is ‘social distancing’. He requested the chief ministers to ensure effective implementation of the same.

The chief ministers speak

The chief ministers thanked the Prime Minister for the support given by the Centre to the States in combating COVID-19 and also appreciated the impact of Prime Minister’s message in his address to the nation.

The chief ministers briefed Narendra Modi and others about the preparations done till now. During the course of their presentations, they requested for augmentation of testing facilities, greater support to vulnerable sections, advancement of financial disbursement for 2020-21 to the States and requested for roping in private labs and hospitals in larger numbers.

All the Chief Ministers assured their support and reaffirmed that all States will work together with Government of India to combat the pandemic.

PM assures support to States

Prime Minister appreciated the steps taken by the States and thanked them for sharing their experiences and giving suggestions. He talked about the urgent need of capacity building of healthcare workers and augmentation of healthcare infrastructure. He suggested that the chief ministers should do video conference with trade bodies in their states to prevent black marketing and undue price rise. He urged them to use soft power of persuasion as well as legal provisions, wherever necessary.

Prime Minister said that the COVID-19 Economic Task Force set up by Government of India will formulate the strategy to devise suitable approach to effectively tackle the economic challenge. He urged the Chief Ministers to ensure that all necessary steps are taken and all advisories are adhered to in order to ensure the safety of citizens in the country at large. (PIB)

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